Welri Viljoen (Pretoria)

Pathways of nature, 2026

Mixed media

40,5 cm x 40,5 cm

Artist’s Statement

Pathways of Nature is a surrealist abstract artwork that explores the interconnected cycles of growth, decay, renewal, and transformation within the natural world. Inspired by the concentric rings of a tree trunk, the work presents a symbolic cross-section of life itself, where each ring represents the passing of time and the accumulation of experiences, memories, and change.

The artwork is constructed from wire, wool, thread, and gold leaf, all encapsulated within a circular epoxy mould. These materials create a layered organic structure that reflects both the fragility and resilience of nature. Running throughout the composition is a delicate golden thread, symbolising the unseen pathways of life that connect all living things. This thread represents the flow of energy, growth, and continuity that persists through generations, linking past, present, and future.

The circular resin form also references the scientific practice of preserving insects and biological specimens in resin blocks for observation and study. Just as these specimens are suspended in time, the materials within the artwork become preserved fragments of nature, capturing a fleeting moment while inviting reflection on the passage of time. The resin acts as both a protective vessel and a metaphor for memory, preserving traces of life that might otherwise disappear.

The circular form serves as a symbol of the circle of life, reflecting nature’s continuous processes of birth, growth, death, and regeneration. Displayed within a square frame against a white background, the artwork creates a dialogue between nature and human order. Pathways of nature invites viewers to contemplate the invisible connections that bind all living things and the enduring cycles that shape existence.