Strongylodon macrobotrys - even the scientific name sounds regal. Blue Jade has always been one of my favorite flowers, and believe it or not, the first time I touched one was only a few months ago. The Jade Vine was discovered in the Philippines during the 1800’s by a group of explorers on a worldwide expedition. The were transfixed by the array of blue and green hues in these large clusters of flowers. The teal and turquoise coloring that the jade possesses is only found in 3 other discovered plant species on the planet. I’d say that’s pretty damn rare. Standing strong in its own, and owning the rare beauty it holds. You can’t see it, but behind the nose piece there’s a jade stone pendant from my mom to remind myself to always have peace and tranquility, like jade symbolizes. There’s a line I read that I really love, “It calms and restores, like a veil of slow moving clouds covering the moon.” Something about that line resonated with the feeling I had while making this mask. Maybe it was the foggy brain after many hours of flower dissection and assembly, but there was a calming and rejuvenating feeling about it. The way this mask all came together was divine intervention, and literally a dream come true for me. Growing up I would always see blue jade in photos or in lei and was completely mesmerized. When I got my hands on enough for a mask, I couldn’t contain my excitement and immediately got to work. As much of a test of patience as this process was, it was also such a great moment for me to pause and take a break from all of the hustle and bustle that has returned to the island, and dive deep into my creative world, really just getting lost in it. Looking back on it, those 26 hours sitting there felt like 15 minutes. It’s amazing how time becomes obsolete when you’re in your realm. This jade mask was a reminder that we are all rare, unique, and beautiful. There is absolutely nobody like you, there never was and never will be. Blue’d out neck and iridescent turquoise eyes by the talented @torielle_maui 💙 Thank you!