Hey, hello there, friend!
I'm thrilled to share the journey behind my latest body of work, created during an artist residency in France. This collection is a deeply personal exploration of the paradox between vulnerability and strength, born from the intense experience of navigating my father's death while pursuing my artistic dreams in France.
My initial intention for this residency was to create something brand new. I had no idea what it would look like, but I was determined to explore uncharted territories. Little did I know how profoundly my father's transition would shape this journey. As I began to process the whirlwind of emotions—joy, awe, energy, powerlessness, grief, and fear—I found myself documenting these feelings in a way I never had before.
The pieces in this collection are fragmented and raw, reflecting the intense emotions of anger and sorrow alongside the realization of my dream. The abstract backgrounds, created with water and paint, symbolize healing and energy. Water, in its fluidity and transformative power, became a central element, signifying the healing process I was undergoing, and was wishing for my dad, days before his transition. Circles appear in each piece, representing portals of clarity and the moon's light, seamlessly blending my previous work with this new direction. The vibrant colors and patterns represent the fragments of myself diving into grief. It felt like I was living in parallel realities.
Initially, I struggled with the idea of creating happy and pretty paintings. Instead, I was compelled to document my feelings without agenda, control, photo references, or a systematic approach. This raw expression was a significant departure from my usual style. Still, it felt necessary to convey the depth of my experience.
Grieving while living my dream was a profound challenge. I'm still trying to understand my emotions, why here, why now? And piece together my new reality. However, I felt held and supported in the residency. The community around me offered unwavering support, culminating in a fantastic memorial for my father. We shared prayers, poems, and art, creating a magical space that helped me navigate this difficult time.
With its supportive and nurturing environment, this residency became a PARADOX where my new collection was born. The difficulty of dealing with grief in such a magical space gave rise to a body of work that embodies the life force, resonating with frequencies that connect us all.
In sharing this collection, I hope to bring you closer to your heart. I manipulate shapes and emotions through a meticulous interplay of composition and color. I hope you love them.
Let me share some feedback I received from the artists and currators from the Chateau Orquevaux, where my residency took place:
"This new body of work is taking you to another level."
"I can feel the intensity of emotions you are processing here".
"I can feel and see California in these colors and love how they reflect your style."
"I love the juxtaposition of the abstract to the circles."
"This work is so powerful! You have transformed grief into beauty, and I hope you continue to do so and be free from perfection".
"I love these paintings because I can feel your heart."
"Your paintings are cosmic."
"I love the joy above the darkness."
In sharing this collection, I hope to bring you closer to your heart. I manipulate shapes and emotions through a meticulous interplay of composition and color. I hope you love them.
Stay tuned for more in depth information about my new collection.
Color Your Life!
Love,
Drica
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