In the summer of 1998 after moving back to my native Los Angeles, I painted my first “little girl” and thus began the series. Over 10 years later, the images continue to flow effortlessly.
The paintigs are 4x6 inches in size. The original “little girl” goes back to my high school years over 25 years ago. While doodling in class, I sketched an image of a boy and girl intertwined. As I worked on the piece, I observed how drawing the girl came effortlessly; there was an amazing sense of limitless possibility and freedom. While working on the boy, I struggled to complete the drawing; I felt restricted and eventual relief upon completion. I came to understand the importance of these feelings later on in my life.
Over the years and even while at UC Berkeley, I continued to paint/ draw, without ever feeling a true connection to my work, yet believing that one day the connection would arrive. Through the years, the image of the girl appeared in various forms without any conscious awareness.
After completing “In Red Light District”, the first in the series, there was an avalanche of images and ideas. I felt an immediate familiarity, passion, and deep connection.
I found my miracle in “little girls.” Not only am I allowed to be honest to my own creative process, but they are also a very real reflection of who I am and how I live my life. They are simple, colorful, silly, and each with a little twist. They provide me with an endless sense of possibility that allows me the freedom to imagine anything and to continue to live my life filled with wonder, rather than judgment.
1 comment:
Soon after seeing the Marlene Dumas Exhibit, I painted 'The Kiss Back,' as I felt the need to thank her so very much.
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