Autumn Splendor 

Franklin Carmichael captured this scene, titled "Autumn Splendor," with oil. Here, the forest itself becomes a stage for nature’s dance, echoing ancient motifs of life, death, and rebirth. The trees, reaching skyward, recall the classical image of the Tree of Life, a symbol found across cultures, from the Norse Yggdrasil to the biblical tree in Eden. The cyclical shedding of leaves mirrors the snake shedding its skin, symbolizing renewal and transformation. Note how the vibrant colors of the leaves trigger within us a primeval awareness of decay, while the persistent green beneath offers a counterpoint of enduring life. This interplay stirs a deep, subconscious dialogue, connecting us to the endless rhythms of existence. It's a powerful force engaging us on a profound, visceral level. This symbol of transformation is not merely a linear progression but a recurring cycle. The forest has resurfaced, evolved, and taken on new meanings in different historical contexts, and will continue to do so.