Apperception

This latest body of work is inspired by the Persian miniatures where otherworldly beings are intertwined with earthly figures and symbols. The use of vibrant colors, combined with graceful lines in these miniatures creates a mystical sense to each piece. They remind one of Chagall’s poetic canvases, where objects and images of the everyday life float within the composition, creating a sense of mystery while familiar.

Adversity and hardship, as well as the search for truth, have been sources of artistic creative expression. Chagal was inspired by war and the Russian revolution to create his images. Persian miniature artists translate the writing of Persian poets who search for the divine to create compositions that are both mystical and enticing.

The series “Apperception” was created during 2022 in response to my experience as caregiver for a loved one suffering dementia. In these works I am reaching for divine intervention (Masks of God, oil on canvas), wisdom (The Wise, oil on canvas), and step into my own power (She-Warrior-Protector, oil on canvas). Each canvas tells a story in this journey which at some point becomes the shared experiences of the giver and the receiver (Reflections-Lives, oil on canvas). 

In this series both the figurative aspects and the techniques applied are a departure from my signature style of pouring and using mineral solutions. I begin with acrylic and oil pigment sticks to develop the base, in which I draw floating figures with oil pastels and oil sticks and complete the images by adding gestural marks to unify the figures with the background. 

The titles such as, Masks of God, She-Warrior-Protector, Reflections-Lives, and The Wise, allow the viewer to bring their own beliefs and perceptions to the viewing process to create their own story.