Hello everyone! Since it is now October, I thought I’d let you all know that my “Weather Report” project is still going on strong. This new series of contemporary Chinese watercolor is a continuation of the “Wonders of Nature” series I had showcased at the Silicon Valley Asian Art Center in 2018.
My latest work in progress has been greatly influenced by how I am handling daily life with the “Sheltering-in-Place” order in California. Since April, we’ve had to stay indoors and practice social distancing due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Fortunately, I’ve been able to use my artwork as a means to overcome the feelings of isolation from friends and loved ones. In this series of four artworks, which for now are untitled, I’ve infused brighter, more hopeful colors such spring-like greens and turquoise blues against a palette of gray tones.
As you can see above in “Untitled I”, the dark grays in the background have been superseded by an exuberant application of washes in a Caribbean sea blue and tropical forest green.
In this next abstract above, I deepened the color and textures so that the yellows, greens and turquoise blues stand up more strongly against the grays. As you can see, the bold turquoise stroke practically defies the gray gloom. It is my visual way of saying “I choose to feel joy” in any surrounding.
For Weather Report – Untitled III, I chose to strengthen and deepen the turquoise blues, covering the darkest parts of the gray background more completely. The visual meaning to me — I have more control over my environment by drawing from my never-ending well of good thoughts. I like this piece for its strength of emotion.
Last but not least, this artwork signifies coming to a sense of peace in myself. I don’t feel as if there is as much conflict or duality as in the other paintings. Perhaps it is the fact that I’m getting used to the world’s “New Norm.” The grays and blue and greens are mixed, but no longer have a sense of conflict as in the previous works. Acceptance helps bring on that feeling of peace.
Until next time, stay safe and be well!
— Amy