“Truth Is Worth It”
13”h x 9”w, $290

When I start working in my studio in the morning it can be several hours before I turn music on. As my brain relaxes into a rhythm, it’s nice having something playing in the background. The genres I listen to vary widely. It can be anything from Beethoven to J.J. Cale to Bobby McFerrin. One musician I came across unexpectedly the other day is Madonna. Believe it or not, I was previously unfamiliar with her work. During an interview she spoke about her feelings of being true to herself and truthful with others. The timing was interesting as I was in the final stages of completing the artwork featured here. It’s titled “Truth Is Worth It” and is part of my Serendipity Series.

Somewhere along the way I heard a quote, “In simplicity there is truth.” I would propose flipping that sentiment to, “In truth there is simplicity.” From the very beginning I knew what the title for this Hanji artwork would be. I found myself in a relaxed, contemplative mood as I cut or ripped each piece of the mulberry paper, placing it just so. I incorporated facsimiles of the Enso (a variation on a circle) for its feeling of joy and creativity and went on to create the swirls in a soft yet definitive color to depict the flow of living one day to the next. The star depicts the happiness I feel by living in the moment and the connections I make with others.

I approach each day with optimism. My intention is for the abstract artwork I create in Studio 126 to convey this same message. I live simply, focus on the positive, and stay away from the chatter on social media. When a person connects with my Joomchi artwork the circle of the energy is complete. Less is more. The truth needs nothing extra to find its mark.