As I delve into the depths of my creative process, there is one particular piece that holds a special place in my heart: Garden Of Thoughts II. Through this experimental and expressive mixed media painting, I have poured my soul into every stroke, translating my myriad of emotions and imaginings onto the canvas. It is a journey through the corridors of my mind, where various thoughts, issues, situations, nature, fears, joy, and sadness intertwine.
The idea of transforming these intangible thoughts into tangible beauty, aesthetics, and poetry has always fascinated me. However, I am acutely aware that achieving such a feat is far from easy; it requires an abundance of time, patience, and a willingness to embrace failure as an integral part of the artistic process.
Garden Of Thoughts II stands as a will to this ongoing quest. As a contemporary African mixed media painting, it boasts dimensions of 32 by 48 inches, commanding attention and inviting the viewer to immerse themselves in its intricate details. It is a captivating tapestry of materials meticulously selected for their ability to convey my sensations and encapsulate my daily thoughts and struggles.
Upon closer examination, one can spot the delicate arrangement of cowries, yarns, newspapers, papers, cartons, and foil papers, all harmoniously intertwined with acrylic on canvas. Each element carries its own significance, contributing to the overall narrative of the artwork. The cowries, symbolizing prosperity and spirituality in African culture, add a touch of ancient wisdom to the contemporary composition. The yarns, meticulously woven and intertwined, represent the intricate threads of my thoughts and experiences, interconnecting to form a tapestry of my existence.
The newspapers and papers, layered and intertwined, bear witness to the constant influx of information and ideas that bombard my mind daily. They depict the struggle to sift through the noise, seeking meaning and clarity amidst the chaos. The cartons and foil papers, meticulously arranged and manipulated, convey the duality of strength and vulnerability, resilience and fragility that I encounter in my journey of self-expression.
Through the vivid palette of acrylic paints, I give life to my emotions, infusing the canvas with hues that range from vibrant and energetic to sombre and introspective. Each brushstroke carries a fragment of my being, a reflection of my inner world translated onto the surface, inviting the viewer to explore their own emotions and perspectives.
Garden Of Thoughts II is more than just a painting; it is a visual diary, a testament to the complexity and beauty of the human experience. It encapsulates the universal struggle to transform our thoughts and struggles into something tangible, relatable, and inspiring. I hope that those who encounter this artwork will be moved to reflect upon their own journeys, finding solace, inspiration, and a renewed appreciation for the power of self-expression.
