Ashley Rodriguez

North Monterey County High School

Senior

My art is an extension of my newfound independence. As a multiple I’ve lived and identified as a unified being. However, I’ve finally broken my shackles and entered a time in my life where I breathe and create for me!

Cathartic in its nature, art is also the beholder of my fascinations. Over the years I’ve developed a penchant for mythology, fantasy, and verdant terrain. In regards to my mediums, I have a propensity to utilize either graphite pencils or acrylic paints. I’ve only recently taken up oil paints; Yggdrasil being my second ever oil painting. I will say, although the drying time is bothersome, the joy of layering and patience it provides was worthwhile. My other works have a commonality in that they are landscapes and places of fantasy—an escape from reality.

My art piece is a physical manifestation of growth and exchange. Named after the Norse mythology tree of life Yggdrasil—where Odin hung for nine days to attain knowledge. Besides being located at the center of the universe, the holy ash tree unified the nine realms and all else! By being the harbitor of knowledge to Odin, my tree is a metaphor of modern world knowledge yet to be attained. My tree also sits along a tranquil path that eventually meets the desolate mountains. The path serves as a symbol of my journey to acquire knowledge which, unlike Odin, will be a lifelong exchange. An exchange for the greatest treasure of all, for knowledge cannot be stolen.