Joshua Martinez
Artist Statement
To find growth is to learn, feel, and above all else, continue forward even amidst the tribulations that we often find ourselves. This series visualizes the relationship between our mental health and the imagery of fungi, using them as a metaphor for the weight we carry in life. We, as humans, tend to flourish through connection, validation, and personal achievements. That feeling of living is constantly growing through the achievements of what we have and will continue to achieve. Much like fungi, our growth is linked to the
relationships and successes we nurture. When these connections weaken or when we feel stuck, it can mirror the way fungi thrive on what has already withered.
Fungi thrive on decay, symbolizing how feelings of unfulfillment can weigh us down. When we lack self-fulfillment, our mental and emotional vitality can diminish - causing distress and subsequently leads us feeling less of ourselves. This work encourages viewers to consider their own experiences of growth and decay, highlighting the importance of nurturing our inner lives. It invites reflection on how we can shift our focus from what holds us back to what helps us thrive, promoting a journey toward personal fulfillment and renewal.
