Rare Roses
The Rare Roses collection is a poignant tribute to the intrinsic worth of every human being. Nicole Shannon was inspired to create this series from her personal journey as a mother to her son Quinn, who has a rare genetic condition. Through the Rare Roses, Nicole communicates a simple but powerful truth: every person is uniquely beautiful, valuable, and deserving of love.
Roses became the central symbol of this message because they are universally revered and cherished for their beauty, significance, and uniqueness. Across cultures and throughout history, roses have held a special place in hearts and minds—not in spite of their differences, but often because of them. When Nicole learned that roses, like humans, can exhibit rare genetic variations that make them even more extraordinary, she felt a profound connection to these blooms. Fascinated by their differences, she consulted botanists to better understand these rare roses. (You can learn more about these variations here.)
As a mother to a child with a rare genetic difference. She has witnessed the painful societal tendency to undervalue those who have genetic differences. Determined to challenge these biases, Nicole turned to her art to celebrate the dignity and beauty inherent in every life.
Seeing images of genetically unique roses captivated Nicole. She began painting them while her son rested during long hospital stays, each brushstroke a reflection of her love and a declaration of human worth. What started as a deeply personal form of art therapy evolved into a series of twelve paintings, each celebrating the idea that beauty and value are inherent to all of us, regardless of our differences.
As Nicole shared her work, other parents resonated with the message behind the Rare Roses. Their encouragement inspired her to present the series on a larger scale. To reach more people, she created large format giclée canvas prints of her original paintings. When the Greenwood Genetic Center invited her to exhibit the Rare Roses on their campus, Nicole embraced the opportunity, donating 80% of each sale to the GGC Cares Fund, which helps families access life-changing genetic testing and counseling.
The original Rare Roses series sold out quickly, demonstrating the universal appeal of its message. Today, many of the Rare Roses reside in prominent institutions, including Clemson University's Center for Human Genetics, the University of Chicago's Department of Human Genetics, Boston Children’s Hospital, the Greenwood Genetic Center, and The Medical University of South Carolina.
Although the original series has sold out, its message endures. Supporters are encouraged to share the story of the Rare Roses project, spreading its powerful truth: all people are uniquely beautiful, valuable, and deserving of love.
Now, the beauty and message of the Rare Roses collection can be carried with you every day. Nicole Shannon has reimagined her celebrated paintings as luxurious silk scarves, allowing you to wear this powerful tribute to individuality and worth. Each 100% silk scarf features one of the Rare Roses, combining elegance with purpose. A portion of every purchase supports Unique, a nonprofit dedicated to families with rare genetic conditions. With these scarves, the Rare Roses continue to inspire, celebrate, and share their enduring message of love and acceptance. (Explore the Rare Rose silk scarf collection here.)
