(30 x 22 in.) individually
(30 x 44 in.) together
Artist's Description:
Loop is a diptych that focuses upon the looping of vivid colors with subdued colors and "loops" together two events. The first event was "hunting" for mushrooms on the ‘Aiea Loop Trail in the Keaīwa Heiau State Park with Mark. It fulfilled a longing to be in nature and away from the city. I am fortunate that Mark enjoys these adventures and fully supports my need to gather inspiration. He is the one that led me on the "hunt" through side paths of the trail - a "true" off roading adventure :)
The second event was a birthday adventure that involved yoga - meditation- live music - on a farm - fruit trees - plants - in the depths of Waimanalo surrounded by the Koolau Mountains. The theme of the practice was despite the heaviness of the current times how can we still show self love to ourselves. In giving ourselves loving kindness it will radiate out into the world. At one point, the musician repeated the statement: How you love yourself is how you teach others to love you. (Poet Rupi Kaur). Its a powerful quote that I will only benefit from by remembering. The looping of both those events makes for a really grounding experience to translate onto paper.
I completed this piece during a self-made residency, which is one of the ultimate acts of love I show myself. Turning off, limiting communication, focused, inspired - clears the air/mind/heart. Many can agree that life has been challenging lately but despite that fact - how can you show up for yourself and take care of your own heart. We must fill up our own cups up before we extend our energy to others. I am grateful for this looping of events that make my heart shine. I see this translated in this piece - where there are areas of tight detail that burst into open space - like a breath of air. I see it in the clarity of the color and the softness of the background where you discover the faint heart shaped bougainvillea.
ha'uoi vervains - native - medicinal (tiny purple flower), ohia lehua buds, bougainvillea, papaya, kupukupu ferns, palm roots, sprouts, mushrooms, turkey tail mushrooms, uluhe fern, clovers, another few ferns - dont know names
