Exhibition: All my friends are flowers... (and blue)

For many cultures, plants have played a role in keeping minor ailments at bay. Liquorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is known throughout East Asia, the Middle East and Southern parts of Europe for its sweet taste and its anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. In Aotearoa, Māori used Kawakawa leaves in much the same way, though its flavour is peppery, not sweet.

This series of paintings was originally sketched by Tosh Ahkit in isolation during the 2020 lockdown periods to imagine a connection to absent friends and communities. All my friends are flowers… (and blue), aims to foster community and help in rediscovering lost knowledge through flowers.