Madu Medi Verified listing

**Artist Statement: The Cotton Flame**

The purpose of my art is to create a profound connection to nature and to highlight the beauty found in its simplest forms. Through my work, I aim to convey a message of sustainability by utilizing eco-friendly materials and traditional techniques.

My current project, "The Cotton Flame," celebrates the ancient Indian art of making cotton wicks—a craft that has tragically declined with the introduction of machine-made alternatives. I believe that the elaborate designs and techniques inherent to this art form must be preserved for future generations. To this end, I have dedicated myself to cataloging various designs to share across regions and to celebrate the richness of this artistry.

In creating these wicks, I embrace a process that requires no tools, dyes, or materials that end up in landfills. I hand-pick cotton from local farmers, carefully deseed it, and then twist and stretch it between my thumb and forefinger to create the yarn. Each wick is not just a functional object; it carries a narrative that unfolds from the seed to the flower, from the bolls to the yarn, and ultimately to the flame. This cyclical journey begins anew, inviting reflection and appreciation for the cycles of nature and craftsmanship.

Through "The Cotton Flame," I hope to inspire others to recognize the beauty in traditional practices and the importance of sustainability, encouraging a deeper connection to the natural world around us. Thank you for joining me on this journey.