Reflections on Painting

I feel strongly aware that one of the purposes in my life is to create art. It's something within me that draws and compels me that I don't really understand, but it seems to be a force bigger than me.

I watched a documentary a few years ago called The Sunnyboy about Australian musician Jeremy Oxley. He said regarding his song writing, "There was this big empty space where songs were supposed to be put..."  I related to that statement immediately because I have often had an awareness of paintings waiting for me to create. Once I imagined hundreds of framed paintings hanging suspended in a large expanse of sky, the artwork had eternal significance. Great music and great art, lives well beyond the life of the artist.

We are all unique in our creative expressions, whatever they may be. I usually have an emotional connection and strong inspiration to paint a subject, and hopefully that creates a response in the viewer. I don't often paint obvious symbolism although most of my paintings do have symbolic or significant meaning for me, I prefer to let the viewer gain their own personal experience and reaction. If they pick up the subtlety of the emotion, without knowing my story behind the piece that’s enough. Art speaks to us all in different ways.

In my daily life I am surprised by unexpected beauty, whether that be in shifting clouds or a tiny bird singing. By allowing those beautiful moments into my heart it provides a sense of wellbeing and gratitude just for being alive. Even though life can be chaotic and tough at times there is always beauty to be found and an opportunity to absorb it.  I want to help others see the beauty and colours that I see in nature and hope that my artwork brings a positive experience.

Magenta Rose