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Giver of Life
Many living beings, including humans, have depended on alewife as a food source. Not only food in itself, the alewife has also provided important nourishment for vital crops when used as a fertilizer. The Three Sisters -- maize (corn), beans, and squash - were staple crops for indigenous communities in the Northeast for hundreds of years prior to the arrival of Europeans. Seeds for these three plants, along with dead fish, were buried together in mounds of soil. Growing symbiotically, corn stalks provide support for bean plants to climb, pole beans pull nitrogen from the air to enrich the soil, and squash protects the plants from critters while also shading the ground, helping to retain moisture and prevent weeds. These three plants, along with fish or meat, provide a balanced and nutritious diet.
About the Artist:
Alejandra grew up in Providence and, like a true Rhode Islander, swore she would leave, but is still here. Her mixed media art is a fusion of a love for plants, color, and pattern born from growing up in a home filled with Central American folk art and Guatemalan and Swedish culture. Alejandra lives in Providence with her spouse, Peter, two kids, three cats, and many plants. She is an art teacher in Providence at 360 High School.
About The Avenue Concept:
The Avenue Concept (TAC) launched its Utility Box Program to create an entry point for emerging and established artists to be part of a larger installation. TAC uses storytelling media to promote artists and build community around their stories through video, professional photography, digital design, social media, and press.