Perdudilla, 32 x 50 in, acrylics and color pencils on canvas, framed on ash, 2023

Perdudilla i's a painting that fearlessly defies conventional standards of beauty. This artwork  offers reverence to the resilient perdudilla weed—a testament to nature's unwavering spirit and the underappreciated charm of what we label as "weeds."

Upon first inspection, "Perdudillas" may appear unpretentious. Two perdudilla plants stand side by side, their delicate violet blooms gracefully bowing in harmonious unison. A slight silhouette of a portrait can be seen in the background, reminiscent of Riesbri’s autoportraits. Yet, what truly sets this painting apart is its unconventional positioning. The dyptique is not leveled, each stretcher is a little bit higher or lower than the other.

Against a backdrop awash in blue tones, the vibrant purples of the blossoms radiate with a vitality that serves as a poignant reminder of the thriving life that often thrives in the most unexpected corners of the world.

This artwork challenges the prevailing perception of weeds as mere intruders, beckoning us to reevaluate our connection with these persistent plants. Weeds, with their unwavering growth, stand as living testaments to the power of adaptability and the capacity to flourish despite adversity. They embody the indomitable spirit of nature, offering profound lessons in resilience and survival.

The vibrant perdudillas portrayed in the painting not only symbolize resilience but also serve as gateways to a realm of traditional remedies. The Guarani people, steeped in ancient wisdom, have harnessed the therapeutic potential of various yuyos, including perdudillas, for their healing, soothing, and nourishing properties, usually used to sieve Mate. "Perdudillas" stands as a visual tribute to the profound connection between the natural world and the well-being of the Guarani, underscoring their profound understanding of the hidden curative properties within the most unexpected of places.

This artwork implores us to recognize the wisdom of indigenous cultures like the Guarani, who have nurtured a harmonious bond with nature and embraced the healing potential of weeds. It compels us to view these so-called weeds not as nuisances, but as invaluable sources of well-being, urging us to delve into the knowledge passed down through generations.