On Friday October 18, 2024, we celebrated the opening of Selected Weeds in Cobble Hill, featuring recent works by Jessica Dalrymple. Hosted at Remedies Herb Shop at 453 Court St, the event drew a vibrant crowd of herb and art enthusiasts, creating an engaging atmosphere where attendees discussed the profound impact of both art and nature. The opening was a great success, fostering connections and inspiring conversations among those passionate about the beauty and significance of the natural world.
Inspired by the practice of “Selective Weeding,” Jessica Dalrymple’s series delves into the complex role of weeds within our ecosystems. By focusing on specific wild plants found in both urban and rural environments, she highlights the often-overlooked benefits these plants offer. Weeds can play crucial roles, such as hosting beneficial insects, providing food for wildlife, and even remediating pollution. Through this exploration, Jessica challenges conventional perceptions of weeds, inviting viewers to recognize and appreciate their vital contributions to biodiversity and environmental health.
As an artist, Jessica immerses herself in a thoughtful process, using intricate techniques that honor both the beauty of nature and the structural essence of the city. Her scrolls, inspired by Japanese art, are elegant and elaborate, while her mixed media pieces blend collage, oil painting, and manipulated photography. Her work references both centuries-old depictions of nature, where art and science merged to create beautiful illustrations, and the more precise representations characteristic of modern times. Through this exploration, Jessica invites viewers to appreciate the rich history of artistic expression and its continuing relevance in understanding our environment.
In tandem with Jessica’s passion for nature, community herbalist and owner of Remedies Herb Shop, Cheryl Boiko, also shared her expertise and wisdom with us. Established in 2014 in the charming Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn, the shop offers an extensive selection of carefully curated herbal products. These include organic herbs, roots, spices, natural skincare products, herbal and mushroom extracts, books, flower essences, and more. This diverse collection strengthens the community’s connection to herbalism, while also creating a welcoming space for events like Selected Weeds, fostering dialogue and appreciation for both art and nature!
Overall, it was a lively evening of artistic expression and education as we learned, shared, and expressed our appreciation for the living world around us. The event seamlessly blended creativity and knowledge, offering an inspiring space to celebrate both the beauty of nature and the wisdom it holds!
