MAGNOLIA BLOOM AND BUD

I grew up with a magnolia tree outside my bedroom window. The window that framed this fragrant beauty had a southern exposure; my other window looked west - up the driveway. My two brothers shared a room on the northern side of the house - their two windows faced west. I've wondered what effect our different vistas may have had on our individual perceptions of morning, the seasons, and bedrooms. They'd wake in a cool, dark cave - no matter the time of year. For me, spring was a pink blush of perfume and hummingbirds. Summer, I'd wake to sunlight dancing to the tune of rustling leaves. Fall was a gilded glow of enchantment, and winter's branches were adorned in frosted lace and cardinals. I don't remember anyone choosing who got which room, but they definitely got ripped off.

I sculpted this life size magnolia branch from wire, plaster, paper, and paint.