a soft vanitas

This pin is inspired by the Vanitas tradition: still life paintings featuring wilting flowers, fruit with bruises, flies feasting, snuffed candles, skulls and other symbols of impermanence - a reminder that nothing lasts forever.

The term comes from the Bible and emphasises that the pursuit of worldly possessions is futile compared the goal of heavenly salvation. It encourages the audience to reflect and repent.

I hope this fly pin makes a softer statement - Less warning, more witness. 

As origami ages, creases soften and colors fade. 

I could seal my works with some kind of resin or shellac but I don't - not to neglect preservation, but as a practice of appreciation and attention. 

In my mind, sealing paper feels false. I would rather let it age with me. I know what will remain is not the object, but a memory and the invitation to fold again. 

It's like affirming: 

• I won't poison myself and the planet to preserve beauty
• I won't harden something meant to stay pliable
• I won't pretend permanence is the goal

Unlike an oil painting, this pin doesn't aspire to a museum. It aspires to be brought to life on a jacket or a bag, touched by sunlight and hands and one day, become compost, fertile material for growth.

It is an art, this presence and release. As you can see from the irony of my archived photos and words, it's one I'm still practicing.