Often I get asked if I do portraits. Much as I have produced some realism work from time to time I simply have to marvel at the cutting edge technology and the digital age of photography which I personally think can deliver far better results all round ...particularly for portraits. Left to my own creative representation, I am game and can rise to the challenge even if I do not consider portrait painting my forte.
I conceptualised, researched and completed the Lotus Collection during the year 2004... hence the title. The collection of 21 paintings in varying forms and styles from minimalist to graphic realism were done on canvas in bold expressive acrylic paints to profile the dynamism and vibrancy of this incredible and spectacular aquatic plant.
I drew inspiration from its long history as an art form, as an article of food, its prolific ornamental form in decoration, its spiritual symbolism and sanctity in eastern religions, its representation of Purity, Longevity, Good Health, Fortune and Divine Wisdom.
For posterity I had this collection compiled into a catalogue for copyright and to mark the start of turning my talent for creating into designing as well. This revelation for me is more meaningful...selling designs I create compared to the opportunity of selling prints of my work. Originality is Omnipotent.
Its been sometime now since I made - what some well meaning people have called "a bold / brave/daring..." - move from my somewhat cushy corporate job to pursue my passion as a profession...and then there have been those who have stopped short of labelling me a fool.
What used to be an eagerly awaited and well deserved paycheck each month was now replaced by bills, for utilities, materials and such, which was new and that I now had to contend with. As much joy, fulfilment, pride, rush etc...I derive doing what I am doing, I wholesomely concede and subscribe to the reality and practicality of and my need and constant struggle for the legal tender. That in itself is resolve enough for me... as much as my strengths lie in my dedication and discipline.Also I am absolutely determined in the pursuit of my dream and my ultimate desire to leave a legacy.
Its hard when your work is plagiarised, ( No I am not flattered by it at all ), when people renege on their purchase, when proceeds are not honoured, when your work is carelessly damaged whilst on display,when your prices are scoffed at...etc. It can be undeniably quite painful at times but whether it has to do with being on a learning curve, facing the wrath of competition and the likes.. .whats clear to me is that I like doing what I am doing, I am getting better at doing what I like doing and I want to be gaining acceptance for what I am doing.
And so I figure I might as well, in the meanwhile, show some style and I am going to keep on keeping on.
