A Lifetime Fortitude – Telopea Speciosissima (Waratah)

A Lifetime Fortitude – Telopea Speciosissima (Waratah) (2025)

By HSIN LIN

Artist Acrylic on Acid-free canvas. Signed at the front and ready to hang.

The artwork is painted extends to all side panels.

D rings and wire are attached at the back.

Comes with a certificate of authenticity.

Sealed with clear varnish spray.

76.2cm (W) x 91.4cm (H) x 2.5cm (D)

Affirmation: Rise up and stand tall; everlasting success is assured ahead of you.

To experience the seasons, I have made it a routine to paint the first bloom in my surroundings during its flowering season. This artwork was inspired by my visit to the Royal Botanic Garden. I was lucky that the red Waratahs were blooming gloriously, and this specific Waratah caught my attention.

 There are three blooms growing on a single stem, which makes it extra special. Each one of them is a metaphor for all the precious moments in lifespan development. The ready-to-bloom, the top main flower in full bloom, even the speckles on those wilted petals and leaves show the strength as well as the trajectories of life.

Waratah - a member of the plant family Proteaceae, native to the south-eastern parts of Australia - New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania.

Telopea – from the Greek telopos, meaning “seen from afar” a reference to the conspicuous, striking flowers.

Speciosissima – from the Latin speciosus, refers to “showy”, “beautiful” ,and “most”.

The spiritual meaning of the flower is strength, courage, connection to the land, and resilience.

The Waratah flower is also the symbol of undying love, passion, and renewal.

The inflorescence of Proteaceae is often very large, blooming in bright, vivid colour, consisting of many small flowers densely packed into a compact head or spike. The bright red Telopea speciosissima is the NSW state emblem. There’s also a saying that the Aboriginal people soaked the Waratah in water and drank it as a tonic of strength.

After 16 months of making, this artwork is finally fresh off my easel. I cherish every memory with this artwork. Part of me is excited to see it finished, but another part wishes the creative journey could go on forever. While the emotions are complex, happiness is certainly among them.

Flowers always bloom in their own time without competing with other flowers. May we all bloom in our time in the best season. Hope you enjoy this artwork of mine.

Artwork inspired by nature at Royal Botanic Garden, Cranbourne, Australia, Spring 2025. -HSIN LIN