Textures & Elements Of The Earth, Original High Gloss Finish Painting W/24k Gold Leaf, Abstract

Artist Statement

Earth forms the most unique textures the eyes can see. There are endless artistic interpretations of these textures similar to that of the earth. I have the upmost respect for nature and the captivating beauty it exudes for our eyes. I enjoy learning the process in which nature forms, how everything knows it’s place and role. Additionally, how many things work in harmonious union with one another. Even some competing or working against each other to form their place on earth.

There are so many things we can learn about ourselves and the life we’ve been given through nature. A wise Japanese proverb I’ve come to love is:

花鳥風月 (Kachou Fuugetsu) Literally: Flower, Bird, Wind, Moon
Experience the beauties of nature, and in doing so learn about yourself. 起死

While I enjoy gazing at the wisteria vines from the root of a tree to the top, I know that ultimately the tree that I also admire underneath is doomed to death. I believe both the tree and vines are valuable and hold beauty in nature. However, many vines (such as wisteria) strangle the tree, reaching up the trunk as high as it can to consume all the sunlight and strengthen its own roots. Because of its beauty and majestic look, many of us don’t realize the pain the tree is in. This beauty is only cosmetic, as the object underneath is suffering for our pleasure. Many people may even purposely grow vines (or let vines grow on their trees) simply because it’s beautiful, without regard for the damage the tree is slowly enduring.

What I’ve learned from this is that it correlates so closely with our lives as humans. Society does not often want to see, or accept, a person for who they are under cosmetic beauty or alteration. We live in a world where we are treated based on our appearance. Many women (and men) alter their looks and bodies to get head in life, or receive opportunities they feel they can’t receive without “modification”. In doing so, they hurt themselves and in many cases we’ve seen over the years, experience lifelong physical and mental anguish. For some, even worse, death. Many individuals fool themselves into thinking they’re happy with their altered selves and become victims to those who marvel or love their cosmetic beauty, rather than the person beneath it.

An example of this is seen in countries like Jamaica and Nigeria, where so many young men and women are succumbing to chemical burns, scarring and death due to extreme skin bleaching. According to WHO, 77% of women in Nigeria use skin lightening products, which is the world’s highest percentage. The payoff comes in the form of job security, progress, and power. Skin bleaching in Nigeria and Africa is therefore seen as a business-oriented decision. The appearance of lighter skin means faster and easier access in landing high paying jobs, particularly in sales and marketing. In addition to this, certain countries in Asia also suffer similar reactions, or feel traditional pressure to skin bleach to improve job opportunities, desirability, and respect. It is societies pressure to strangle oneself in this way. Too many in the world are in a constant battle to love themselves, their skin color, their impurities, and imperfections. But as long as we go out and show our altered selves, with a momentary grin, no one will ever know what is suffered in silence behind the eyes filled with liner and mascara.

As someone who wears makeup (personally enjoying the art of beauty enhancement) and engages with many people, while navigating the contemporary art world, I now ask myself, who (or what) exactly is influencing me to spend hours perfecting my makeup and hair, ensuring not a crease is seen, or a strand out of place? Surely, the people I engage with should enjoy and learn of my heart first, and my beauty second.

花鳥風月 (Kachou Fuugetsu) Flower, Bird, Wind, Moon
Experience the beauties of nature, and in doing so learn about yourself. 起死

We are no more than trees that wisteria vines wrap themselves around and strangle. On the outside, the vines that greet people’s eyes are enjoyed with amazement and wonder. However, the tree that stands covered by the vines, suffer in silence to this cosmetic beauty, failing to grasp the attention from its own natural beauty. - Déjà Marie