Marigold No.1 - The Flower of The Dead

This marigold was such a joy to bring to life in pastel — bold, warm, and full of feeling. I’ve always been drawn to their meaning in different cultures: honouring the dead, celebrating life, and reminding us of the beauty in every part of the cycle.

I wanted to capture that glowing golden centre — like it’s lit from within — surrounded by deep red petals that feel almost velvet-soft. The green leaves give it a bit of rhythm and calm, framing the bloom without pulling focus.

This piece is a reminder that death is not an end, but a natural continuation of life’s cycle — something to reflect on, not to fear. A tribute, not a farewell.

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I am a Melbourne-based artist, born in West Java, Indonesia, in 1987, and migrated to Melbourne, Australia, in 2005.

My art is rooted in my heritage and my love for nature. My style is influenced by all the beautiful things that my senses were exposed to while growing up. From Batik textile prints, to Balinese dance and Gamelan music, to the works by Indonesia’s greatest artists. Everything is dynamic, diverse, and colourful.

In 2020, I was diagnosed with stage 4 Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. While I lost my day job because of it, it gave me the most valuable thing - time. Time to get reacquainted with Australian nature and to pour my appreciation of its beauty onto paper. Making art during my treatment journey has kept my soul alive and my mind intact.

I have been in remission since 2022, and I have now made it my life commitment to create art that hopefully can bring peace and joy to anyone who encounters it. Here’s the manifestation of my love for this planet we call Earth and everything on it. Enjoy!