Contemporary Floral Medicinal Elucidations from the Codex de la Cruz-Badiano

Contemporary Floral Medicinal Elucidations from the Codex de la Cruz-Badiano celebrates the profound knowledge of Indigenous peoples, particularly their expertise with medicinal plants and their applications. With funding by the Puffin Foundation, and support from others, I created and framed 13 original acrylic paintings inspired by the illustrations from the Codex de la Cruz-Badiano, the first recorded book of Indigenous botanical wisdom in the Americas created in 1552.

Through these works, I aim to emphasize the significance of preserving traditional healing practices and to spotlight the invaluable contributions of the Nahua people to science, medicine, and art. The paintings honor the advanced understanding of indigenous civilizations, both pre-colonization and in the present day, while challenging historical narratives that have often marginalized or overlooked their achievements.

All Contemporary Floral Medicinal Elucidations from the Codex de la Cruz-Badiano is currently on view at Wave Hill House in Riverdale, as part of Power Flower: Curative Flora exhibition from September 20, 2025 – January 4, 2026.  All are welcome!