Textiles

The concept of being “botanical” highlights that humans are not separate from nature; rather, we are deeply connected to it, as our ancestors philosophy. When we acknowledge the harm or violence present within ourselves and society, we can ask important questions: How does my inner nature influence the world around me? In what ways am I contributing to my current situation? What steps can I take to change and improve the world we live in?

Title: Die With Nature
Artist: Rafael Montilla
Year: 2024
Medium: Textile and mixed media
Materials: cotton threads, roots frame, macrame, cotton cord yarn, plastic, jute fabric & plastic mesh
Dimension:  74″ × 36″
Series: Nature

Title: 
Artist: Rafael Montilla
Year: 2024
Medium: textile
Materials: cotton threads, macrame & cotton cord yarn
Dimension: 
Series: Nature

This work stems from the act of knitting as a form of meditation, a space where I can contemplate my inner world. It is inspired by the Everglades, the sea, and that impressive natural balance that humanity has been disrupting.

This series speaks to the fragility of nature in the face of progress built on economic greed. Each piece becomes a call for reflection, a reminder that by destroying nature, we also destroy ourselves.