Artist Statement
I titled this work “Layers,” symbolic of the many intricate layers to healing, just as we see the many literal layers of a landscape in this photograph. In the foreground, you are met with a firm, unforgiving boulder — almost analogous to how difficult the initial phase of healing can be, or the setbacks that may be experienced throughout a healing journey. Your eyes then drift on to find the abundance of evergreens, some vibrant and thriving, while others are in their last stages of life. Finally, the mountainous layers take shape before ascending into the sky. Just as nature experiences its own cycle to restore its natural balance, we each have our own mechanisms and sacred oath of healing that empowers us to do the same.
Recommended Citation
Hiemstra, Kristin
(2025)
"Layers,"
be Still: Vol. 9, Article 15.
Available at:
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/bestill/vol9/iss1/15
About the Artist
Kristin Hiemstra is a second year medical student at Nova Southeastern University Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine. Prior to medical school, she attended Colorado State University where she was an Honors College graduate and majored in Health and Exercise Science with a Sports Medicine Concentration. Some of her hobbies include traveling, photography, and skiing. She encourages others to venture outside to explore all that nature has to offer and embrace the power it has to heal.