As soon as we are born, we begin to die.  That may be a gloomy thought, but we begin the circle of life at birth and it seems, now more than ever, we fight as hard as we can against the inevitability of age and the ravages of time.  Helskinki artist Vincent Bakkuum’s paintings confront us with the transitory nature of our very being.

Using images of vintage-y shoes, skulls and dead birds juxtaposed with beautifully blooming flowers, Bakkum reminds us that what once was young and vibrant eventually will be no more.

Just as the bird that falls from the sky, so will we also cease to fly.  Our vanity compels us to continue to adorn what is already beautiful, our very bodies that give us life.

Bakkum’s work reminds us of the inherent beauty to be found in flora and fruit, their beauty and bounty inspires and nourishes us.  They are created as we are created and will return to the dust just as we will.

To see more of Vincent Bakkum’s work, please visit his website.

Featured image is Biological Cream by Vincent Bakkum.  All images are via the artist’s website.