Loden Croll
For Nex
Digitally painted
Transgender, non-binary, and queer people are not distinct from the systems around them. They always have been and will continue to be a part of this world’s natural beauty. For Nex represents this symbiotic relationship from a joyful and prideful place, where trans dreams are precious and fruitful. The artist dedicates this piece to Nex Benedict, a sixteen year-old transgender kid from Oklahoma who died tragically in February of 2024, stating “May the Earth lie upon you softly, Nex.”
Artist Statement
Trans, nonbinary, and queer people have always been and will continue to be a natural part of this beautiful world. I hope this and other creative pieces and projects will further aid our visibility and inclusion within STEM fields. Too often, we are made to feel, whether intentionally or not, distinct from the systems and people around us. Not entirely fitting in, but still lacking the protection to fully express ourselves. Like so many living beings around the globe, our lives are under threat on the basis of circumstance. As someone that has received gender-affirming care, I can confidently say that it has saved my life. With this work, I aimed to create the representation I always wanted to see—as simple as a trans-masculine figure entwined with the natural world. They are unconditionally loved; their dreams are precious and achievable.
I dedicate this work to Nex Benedict, a sixteen-year-old transgender kid from Oklahoma who died tragically in February 2024. Trans youth deserve peace and protection. We deserve to have big dreams and the means to accomplish them. May the earth lie upon you softly, Nex.