My art work explores conception, pregnancy and birth which are collectively the definitive metaphor for life. It is also symbolic of my own personal metamorphosis since becoming a mother. My paintings are inspired by a particular evocative colour mood, out of which the nascent image evolves. Primal forms, especially the circle, relate to both the microcosmic as well as the macrocosmic whole. The abstract formlessness is taking shape and becoming matter.
My artistic journey has always explored the mystical and mythical elements of the cycle of life, inspired by various ancient religions and modern philosophies. I spent time in Bali and Egypt where the creation of the world – birth, death and rebirth; maintaining the balance between good and evil – are the most prevalent cultural themes. It raises fascinating questions of our own mortality and destiny within the cosmic whole. |
Mystical themes such as: Spirits, angels, gods, goddess’ (earth mother/fertility goddess), mythical fish, and Rites of Passage were inspired while living in Bali among their potent spiritual culture. I used the inner bark of the coconut tree to create the central image and then allowed the colour and form to evolve naturally. The result is a fusion of the mystical, abstract and figurative. The paintings have specific meaning to me but they also allow the viewer to enter into a world of deep colour, sparkles and magic and create their own interpretation.
I use photography as an antithesis to painting. A photograph records an instant moment and makes it immortal. It is flexible and has infinite possibilities. I photograph all subjects. Some photos have deep meaning, while others are light hearted. Some are sad, ironic, or romantic, or abstract, or mystical, or tell a story. I love to photograph people, capturing their beauty and idiosyncrasies. Every body holds the memory of a thousand moments. |