Against Forgetting by Penelope Gottlieb

In Against Forgetting, as in other works, Gottlieb incorporated various symbols throughout. Though not regionally associated, the artist made sure to include a specific type of flower, the Semper Augustus. In the 17th century these flowers were among the most valuable commodities in the world. Indeed, their market is said to have created the first economic bubble. By including such flowers Gottlieb underscores the link between nature and financial gain. Another symbol is the large arrow on the left of the composition, an allusion to graphic design elements in sales ads. Its inclusion signifies how certain plants and animals (leopards !) are commodified in contemporary culture. Just as surprising are the other emblems in the work which are related to chance or luck, such as playing cards, dice, and wishbones. They indicate the werewolf, willful disregard society displays towards the environment. As the artist states: “I want students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors to consider the importance of the plant kingdom and how its survival and ours are inextricably intertwined.”