The Importance of the Unimportant - 2025 Installation

Janelle and Jay Patterson 

Acrylic on Wood

I am a dandelion

I am common, ordinary, and regular.

I am bright, but not flashy. 

Pleasant but not opulent.

I seem fragile, basic, and unremarkable.

I am so much more though.

My strong roots can crack stone and persevere through drought and hardship.

I am hearty and nurturing

to those around me.

I am adaptable and flourish in community.

I am resilient alone, but I am a mighty force in collaboration with my neighbors.

I am YOU.

I am an observer; I spend time noticing things.  Several weeks ago I began considering the dandelion and its many similarities to everyday people.  Something that seems so unimportant has the potential to become so important in the right circumstances.  What is so often overlooked as unremarkable, is full of admirable characteristics.  These same characteristics I see in my community and regard as beautiful elements of humanity. 

My intention with this piece is to convey a message of unity.  Our differences are opportunities to grow with one another and become better.  However, we are so much more alike than we are different and, in collaboration, are stronger together.  May we be unified as we face of the adversity of our times.

About the Artist

Janelle Patterson is the owner of Janelle Patterson Art located in Springfield, Missouri. 

She's been working as a professional artist for 12 years and absolutely loves her work.  

After completing her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Art Education at the University of Missouri-Columbia, Janelle moved to southwest Missouri and taught high school and elementary art before pursuing art full time. 

Janelle specializes in painting bold, colorful subjects on both canvas and functional glassware and loves new opportunities to create.