Starflower

Borage (Borago officinalis), often called Starflower for the shape of its flower, is quite an incredible plant. It self seeds very prolifically and can be found popping up in unusual places. For some, it is problematic because it is so adept at survival. For others, like myself, they are in love with this very quality and just how pretty the whole plant itself is.

I feel it is a plant that aligns very strongly with female strength. It is often used in herbal medicine for women's health and reproductive wellness. It is perhaps no accident that the suffragette colours of green, white and purple reflect the colours of Starflower. The flower buds and stems are covered in fine white hairs, the large leaves are a lush, healthy green and the flower itself, a wonderful purple violet hue. 

With the introduction of various bills and laws in Scotland, women's rights are undergoing erosion and it is of deep concern to many women and men alike. The statistics around sex based discrimination is staggering.

I posted this artwork on X many yeqars ago under the hashtag #WomenWontWheesht, a movement of Scottish women. They have adopted the colours of the suffragette movement - purple, white and green - and many posts under this hashtag are really inspiring, beautiful pieces of craft and artworks that reflect their activism. 

In my illustration Bubble Of One, I share how women have unique but shared experiences as victims of societal, familial and partnership abuse and traumas, and often have multiple unhealed traumas throughout our lives.

Additional Information: This was my first attempt at painting - much respect to artists and painters! - and a first at trying my hand with acrylics. I gave myself no more than 2 hours - double the time of the artists on the popular TV show Drawers Off. I personally found this was of huge help in going with the flow.

Price: NFS

Originally posted March 2021, updated Apr 2026