Blueberries in Fissures 1983

Neil Welliver’s monumental canvas presents a seemingly simple scene: rock, sky, and vegetation. Yet, within this rugged landscape, we find echoes of primordial themes. The fissures snaking through the stone, filled with life, recall the ancient motif of the earth mother, Gaia, her body etched with the marks of time and teeming with fertility. Consider the recurring symbol of the serpent entwined around a staff, a symbol of healing and knowledge, that is found in many cultures across time. The fissures mimic this idea, suggesting a life force that flows through the unyielding stone. The juxtaposition of barren rock and vibrant flora speaks to a constant cycle of decay and renewal, a dance as old as time itself. We are reminded that life persists, even in the most inhospitable environments. This is a powerful reminder of the enduring human spirit, our ability to find growth and beauty in the face of adversity.