No Mud, No Lotus was a solo exhibition by Lily McMahan.

Working primarily in painting and ceramics, my process is rooted in personal history, ecology, and exploration of gender and sexuality.

I believe these themes resonate universally while providing a unique lens into my own journey. My upbringing close to the countryside and my grandmother’s water gardens has cultivated a deep connection to the landscape.

Living fully immersed in the Midwest prairie and wetlands led to an interest in ecological systems, and consequently, the sentience of place has become a subject in my work. I aim for my colors to be eye-catching in the way that a flower against the dirt might be– vibrant and acidic.

Joy is often found within dismal and dark places. When observing natural processes I'm captivated by the repetition of destruction and decay, necessary for regeneration. Moments of tragedy reveal beauty, a unique and specific joy not represented enough.

I feel compelled to integrate myself and the physical world seamlessly, as evidence of how the adaptability of life and the resilience of the female body mirror one another. In my work I’m drawn to natural instinct as a mindless driving force from within