The large, lush tropical plant Comigo ninguém pode (dumb cane), which sprawls across indoor or outdoor terraces, is notoriously mischievous in nature. The pride of many gardeners, it is also incredibly toxic if consumed by animals or humans alike. Its Portuguese common name is a self-proclaimed affirmation, which literally translates to the claim “with me, nobody can [mess],” truthful to the plant’s protective powers. Paulino presents various versions of this deceiving vegetation in a series of improbable plant-devouring figures, Comingo ninguém pode No 1, No 2, and No 3 (all 2024), culminating in the large, imposing painting set against the dark. In this last representation, vines and leaves shoot from the figure’s fingers, breasts, mouth, and even assume the form of eyes, as womankind and plant take a single form. It is through such strong visual affirmations that Paulino creates a powerful ecosystem of ideas that is resolutely feminine and contemporary.