This series of abstract watercolor paintings expresses my experience of vulnerability when allowing “what is” to emerge uncensored. Each piece is an exercise in surrendering to the wisdom of the Heart, while suspending judgment and cultivating receptivity. This approach to painting engenders trust in the creative process, enabling me to be less preoccupied with outcomes, and thereby paint (and liv
e) more courageously and whole-heartedly. I apply watercolor paint to the canvas with spontaneous, splashing gestures. As the paint dries, it wanders and mingles to produce a capricious composition. I then use pen and ink to outline the shapes, aiming to stay true to whatever unfolds through my observation and interpretation. The inspiration for the titles of these paintings comes from my study of Mandarin. Chinese characters, unlike phonetic units that comprise English words, are pictorial representations of concepts. They have an artistic quality that parallels the abstract expression in the paintings. In the studio, I often listen to Mandarin while painting, so Chinese titles feel appropriate for this body of work. Although the promptings of the Heart are compelling, implementing a new endeavor with complete uncertainty as to the outcome can be quite unnerving. While creating these paintings I sometimes encounter self-doubt or fear. Yet because of this, each artwork becomes an opportunity to experience myself as expansive and exuberant instead of small and flawed. Through this process I learn to deepen and fortify trust, acceptance, and courage in my art and in my life path.
