Viewers of my art are drawn into a realm where botanicals float on a sea of soothing colors. Mysterious scripts combine with vibrant drawing on exotic handmade papers resulting in something beyond the three dimensions. Collages reflect the ever-changing tones of nature that are recognized by the heart and soul. Once there, one notices subtleties such as grids, patterns and light drawings.
These are portrayals of subtle energies as I experience them—the mystical. Since 1968, meditation has been my inspirational source. I am interested in what lies beneath the surface appearance of things. Observing a sunflower, I ask, “What is the sacred geometry of its design? What mystery gives it life?” I transpose qualities of beauty, transparency, layering, mutability, communication and life force into art. I express the complexity and fragility of the world. I am informed by cycles of nature and cosmos. I incorporate the interplay of perspective and flatness, light and shadow, order and chaos, time and space.
I begin a piece with watercolor brush strokes, then create the overall tone. Ideas emerge by piecing together botanicals, drawings, invented script, gold leaf, painted papers, paste papers and mica. I like all the layers to be visible. With graphite I draw shadows to evoke dimension. I aspire to integrate all aspects of my life with art. I continue to develop my art and land as a place to teach and share the experience of integration.
Kathleen O'Brien
Harrodsburg, Ky.
Email: obrienk@burginwireless.com
Web: www.kathleen-obrien.com
Blog: http://obrienstudio.blogspot.com