Julie Peterson Shea
Memento Mori Summer by Julie Peterson Shea  Image: This illustration is a reflection on the cycle of life as it unfolds in a vibrant symphony of seasonal abundance. 

Against a backdrop of the constellations arranged to mirror the first day of summer, Frank the skeleton appears, embodying the timeless reminder of our mortality and the preciousness of existence.

In his bony grasp, a honeycomb drips with golden sweetness, a testament to the labor of bees and nature’s gift of sustenance. From this delectable offering, the essence of summer's sweetness and nourishment cascades forth.
Surrounding the skeletal figure, peonies and sunflowers bloom in resplendent glory, their vibrant petals a testament to the fleeting beauty of life. Their intricate colors and captivating fragrance remind us to cherish the ephemeral moments that summer brings.

Perched within the embrace of a mulberry tree, an oriole finds solace amidst the ripe berries, indulging in the season's offerings. The interplay of bird and tree symbolizes the harmony of nature, where life finds nourishment and purpose.

In the other hand, Frank holds a bundle of newly harvested wheat, representing the fruits of labor and the cycle of sowing and reaping. It symbolizes the bountiful rewards that come from the cycles of life and the abundance of the summer season.

The disc behind the skeleton's head is reminiscent of the sun and hints at the radiant energy that permeates the world during this time of year. It serves as a reminder of the season’s warmth and the life-giving forces that drive the cycle of growth and renewal.

"Memento Mori, Summer" invites us to reflect upon the transient nature of life, to savor the bountiful gifts of the season, and to find gratitude in the abundant beauty that surrounds us. May it inspire us to embrace the present moment and to celebrate the ever-unfolding tapestry of existence.
This illustration is a reflection on the cycle of life as it unfolds in a vibrant symphony of seasonal abundance. Against a backdrop of the constellations arranged to mirror the first day of summer, Frank the skeleton appears, embodying the timeless reminder of our mortality and the preciousness of existence. In his bony grasp, a honeycomb drips with golden sweetness, a testament to the labor of bees and nature’s gift of sustenance. From this delectable offering, the essence of summer's sweetness and nourishment cascades forth. Surrounding the skeletal figure, peonies and sunflowers bloom in resplendent glory, their vibrant petals a testament to the fleeting beauty of life. Their intricate colors and captivating fragrance remind us to cherish the ephemeral moments that summer brings. Perched within the embrace of a mulberry tree, an oriole finds solace amidst the ripe berries, indulging in the season's offerings. The interplay of bird and tree symbolizes the harmony of nature, where life finds nourishment and purpose. In the other hand, Frank holds a bundle of newly harvested wheat, representing the fruits of labor and the cycle of sowing and reaping. It symbolizes the bountiful rewards that come from the cycles of life and the abundance of the summer season. The disc behind the skeleton's head is reminiscent of the sun and hints at the radiant energy that permeates the world during this time of year. It serves as a reminder of the season’s warmth and the life-giving forces that drive the cycle of growth and renewal. "Memento Mori, Summer" invites us to reflect upon the transient nature of life, to savor the bountiful gifts of the season, and to find gratitude in the abundant beauty that surrounds us. May it inspire us to embrace the present moment and to celebrate the ever-unfolding tapestry of existence.