Regeneration of Moonflower

Datura inoxia, commonly known as datura or moonflower, is an extremely poisonous and psychoactive plant species. Also referred to as “Queen of the Desert”, they have been utilized as poison, medicine, and a ritual intoxicant agent since time immemorial. I met this plant ally shortly after moving to the high desert 9 years ago, immediately drawn to their spiralic blooming process initiated by nightfall. Moonlit summer walks are often accompanied by fully blooming datura, their presence alluring. The essence of this flower is known for supporting death processes, that which we need to let die in order to create space for new life, new beginnings. A longtime devotee to this plant, this piece was inspired by several personal life processes where Datura’s medicine has provided me with solace. It can be difficult to let go of that which we have clung to for far too long. Datura is a medicine of the void, an underworld plant. Allies, such as plants, can assist us in traveling into the unknown. This piece invites viewers to contemplate more-than-human allies which can assist us in releasing out-dated ideologies, unhealthy relational patterns, and internalized narratives that no longer serve our growth. Death gives way to living, creating spaciousness for renewal and regeneration. Datura invites you into curiosity, how can you receive their medicine?

2024

Black Rock City, Nevada

  • photography

  • multimedia

  • archival pigment print

  • this piece was commissioned, in collaboration, with Chelsey Hathman’s Always Another Sunrise Burning Man Honorarium Grant.

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