Artist Statement: Diatoms are microscopic single-celled plants that live in water. These tiny, beautiful plants produce much of the world's oxygen and sequester excess carbon dioxide. We need them to breathe; they need us to keep their environment healthy.

Materials & Techniques: Holes were cut through felt, hand dyed cotton fabric was layered over the felt and clipped and turned under to face each hole. This was stitched to a layer of painted interfacing that was punched with small holes. Paint was added to the surface after stitching.

Dimensions: 29"W x 21"H

Photographer: C. Stehr