Solar Cushions

This artwork showcases vibrant orange lichen (Caloplaca spp.) thriving on a muted grey stone substrate. The lichen forms dense, cushion-like patches with a subtly fuzzy texture, creating a lively contrast against the surrounding surface. These bright clusters draw attention to the symbiotic relationship between fungi and algae, flourishing in sunlit, harsh environments with minimal competition. The vivid orange hue, derived from parietin pigment, signals natural protection against ultraviolet radiation, reflecting ecological resilience and the intricate cycles of nature.