creating a sacred space

With their brief but beautiful bloom, Cherry blossoms remind us to cherish the present moment. Reflecting on this, I envisioned a personal altar that invites reflection and meditation, where the owner becomes an integral part of the piece. Inspired by my evolving exploration of sculptural forms, this work bridges painting and three-dimensional space, a natural progression from a previous wood sculpture project.

The concept began with a meditation practice using a Japanese calligraphy brush and sumi ink, where the client freely expressed their thoughts without guidance. These expressions were later etched into the piece, creating a personal pattern that would tie the owner to the finished work. The lowered mantel symbolizes an offering, a tribute to the ideas that inhabit the space above.

Drawing from ikebana (the Japanese practice of arranging stems, leaves, and flowers), I developed a design that evokes delicacy and beauty, airbrushed to create a softness that mirrors cherry blossoms' gentle, fleeting beauty. The meticulous process of masking and airbrushing each flower was one of precision and patience, layering colors to build depth and create surreal lighting on each blossom.

As the piece took shape, it became a meditation in itself. Titled "I Am Now," this work is a mantra for presence, a reminder to embrace the current moment.

As a partner piece to the blossoms, "Wu Wei" (effortless action) complements the altar and painting with its mysterious, wind-like background and swirling ginkgo leaves, symbolizing life's constant changes. Together, they create a sacred meditative space, honoring the flow and reflection of life.

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