Dryad Series
The Dryad series looks at the relationship between man and nature, more specifically trees. Dryads are tree spirits with shapeshifting abilities, possessing the form of a young woman. The female form is one which has dominated many genres of art and in this series artist Jennifer Pereira tries her hand at incorporating the female nude into her landscapes. The nymph-like figures are found basking in natural settings, blanketed by the dappled light that reaches the forest floor. The Dryads are positioned into dynamic compositions within the landscape.
These works challenge ideas of land and land ownership and humanity’s ever evolving relationship with mother nature (including ‘fads’ like Forest Bathing) and forests/trees as a natural resource vs. living ecosystem. It also explores ideas of femininity.
Message from the artist;
Living in the small Northern Town of Cobalt Ontario I spend a lot of time on the land. Throughout the creation of this series I have reflected a lot on our place in the world. While recently visiting the larger urban centers of Sue St Marie, Sudbury and North Bay I am left with feelings of sadness as I come to terms with how most people are unable (and mostly unaware) of how out of sync they are with the natural world. Only little pockets of forest, grass or marsh land exist as select species try to cling to life, changing their habits to exist in a homocentric world. Little value has been placed on them and all harmony seems lost.
I see the Dryad as a personification of this harmony restored. In this sense, I often embody the Dryad as an artist, as I strive to elevate these natural places, ecosystems and creatures within my art. The trees and forests are sacred, the water and air essential, and balance is crucial for our survival as a species.
The role I play as a woman and mother heavily guided me as I developed these works. What are my duties and responsibilities? What power do I hold as a woman?
I hope that Dryads takes you on an introspective journey. Challenge yourself to be present and to find beauty in the natural world. Become a protector of the trees and water. Make decisions with future generations in mind. Connect with the spirits of the trees, the Dryads.
Thank you.
-Jennifer Pereira
Jennifer Pereira Art 