Gaia is the name the Ancient Greeks gave to the Earth Goddess, the Creator of Earth and the Universe. In the 1970s, systems theorists borrowed the name Gaia when they developed the theory that the Earth is a complex, living, self-regulating system with the capacity to maintain the conditions for life.

Artist Beth Racette’s “Gaia Series” is a series of paintings which aim to learn about and portray the many systems and aspects of Earth. These paintings are inspired by scientific learning, and contemplate the interconnectedness of life. In her work, she explores the question: How do we evolve an awareness of our profound interconnectedness — an awareness powerful enough to inspire us to make the necessary changes to heal and protect our Earth?”