Personally, this piece represents the harmony that is brought about when humans simply respect the nature quietly residing beside us.

Whilst painting this piece, I was reminded of why I enjoy painting in the first place- to explore. "Our Garden" portrays an exploration into my African-Caribbean culture and also the beauty of nature. The use of African wax print fabric (that I sneakily take from my mother's sewing materials) was a subtle way of intertwining my heritage and art. The unique designs and vibrant colours represent individuality and inner strength- attributes I see in my community. Nature's serenity and humble power can be seen in the way the plants are just as big as the painted lady but they don't dominate the spacial layout of the piece, they work in harmony with us.

I used imitation gold leaf and a maroon oil paint background as scenery because I wanted to convey a sense of majestic royalty within the piece. The lady is poised gracefully upon the gold and the plants gently surround her as she looks into the eyes of the spectator.