In the realm of my artistic expression, the choice to paint flowers isn't merely a selection of subject matter - it is a journey that blossomed from observing my daughter’s deep affection for them, as I shared in a previous blog post (read it here). As time unfolded, I realised that flowers, to me, embody more than delicate petals and vibrant colours.
Flowers embody a sense of freedom and wildness that speaks to the core of my artistic identity.
Let me share with you how their symbolism intricately weaves into my creative vision:
Imperfection: The allure of flowers lies in their imperfections. The asymmetry of petals, the irregular patterns, and the subtle variations in color all contribute to their natural beauty. This freedom from the constraints of uniformity serves as a reminder that imperfections are an integral part of beauty. In my floral artwork, I strive to capture the essence of imperfection as a testament to the authenticity and wildness that exists within nature and myself.
Change: Flowers undergo a remarkable journey, from the tender bud to the full bloom. This transformative process of growth and change parallels the human experiences. By creating floral paintings, I aim to convey the beauty that emerges from embracing change and the inevitability of growth. This symbolism serves as a reflection of the personal growth and evolution that I, as an emerging fine artist, undergo on my creative journey.
The magnolia flower symbolises many different things around the world. Two of those meanings is purity and perseverance.
My oil painting titled 'Rebirth', oil on canvas, 2023. For the majority of my floral artwork I am drawn to darker backgrounds however this magnolia stem deserved a pure background almost as pure as the meaning of the flower itself.
Resilience: Flowers are survivors. They bloom in the harshest of conditions, from arid deserts to windswept cliffs. This resilience in the face of adversity is a testament to the untamed wildness that resides within all living things. Becoming a mother has been a constant test of resilience, as many parents would understand! Through my floral paintings I aim to capture the strength and resilience of both flowers and humanity, encouraging viewers to find inspiration in the ability to persevere and thrive against all odds.
Impermanence: The fleeting nature of a flower's bloom serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life itself. This transient beauty encourages me to treasure the present moment and find meaning in the temporary. I aim to encapsulate this essence of fleeting beauty, urging viewers to appreciate the preciousness of every moment and the beauty that exists even in its brevity.
Connection: Flowers have an innate ability to evoke emotions and spark introspection. They hold the power to connect with individuals on a deeply personal level, evoking memories, feelings, and experiences, as anyone who has ever been gifted flowers or collected some for themselves would feel. By painting flowers, I aspire to create fine art that resonates with viewers, inviting them to reflect on their own experiences of freedom, wildness, and individuality.
In every brushstroke on my floral artwork, I endeavor to capture the essence of freedom and wildness that flowers symbolise. Their ability to reflect the complexities of human nature, to embrace imperfections, and to thrive amidst challenges serves as a timeless source of inspiration for my creativity. Through the choice to paint flowers, I express not only their beauty but also their profound symbolism—a reminder of the untamed spirit that dwells within us all.
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