I’ve long been fascinated by the stories behind plants and their cultural uses, and this piece was inspired by a visit to Andromeda Botanic Gardens in Barbados, where I was captivated by the lipstick tree (Bixa orellana).

Its spiky pods contain vivid red seeds rich in annatto, a natural pigment traditionally used in body paint, food and cosmetics, including lipstick.

Through saturated colour and layered forms, the work explores the plant’s striking visual intensity and its enduring connection to human culture and creativity.