Tortoise
Art by Newjack
This artwork was created by Edmundo Canto, also known by his alias Newjack. The Tortoise, Jimmy, is part of a series of Southwest animals designed in honor of his hometown: Tucson, Arizona. The shape of the Tortoise outlines the desert landscape that it calls home.
Our land is part of who we are. It is a whole ecosystem that feeds us. It provides us with air, and sun, and inspiration. It protects us.
When we move to a new environment or our environment changes around us, it can take time to readjust. We can find home again in the familiar patterns of nature and in our connection to it.
Insights from the community:
I grew up around some of the tallest mountains in the world. The rough terrain, chilly air and fresh spring waterfalls bring back so many memories. The warm golden sun glinting off of snow, searching for pinecones. Now I live in Ontario, a place without mountains or hills, and I still struggle to connect with the landscape here.
I feel so deeply cared for and protected by mountains, and whenever I encounter a similar terrain anywhere in the world, I feel a deep sense of longing. My connection to this landscape is metaphysical.