Liza François, Sunflowers for Spring

Sunflowers for Spring refers to the first day of Spring. Springtime brings a sense of renewal and hope, yet for me, it is forever intertwined with loss. It’s the day my father took his life in 2014. In 2021, sunflower seeds were distributed in mailboxes belonging to my father’s friends leading to a bountiful growth of sunflowers throughout Summer. It was a small but significant reminder that even in the midst of pain and grief, beauty can still bloom.

As I immersed myself in capturing the sunflowers of my father’s friends and the world around me, I realized that the images I’ve been taking suddenly took on a new and deeper meaning. Through my lens, everyday beauty becomes entangled with the process of grief. My images capture the fleeting moments of gratitude and hope, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of love, time, and change.

‘Sunflowers for Spring’ is a reflection on the taboo around grief and mental suffering. By openly discussing difficult topics and dedicating time to them, we create opportunities for growth and healing – not just for ourselves, but also for those around us.