Artistic Narratives: Expressions of Self-Discovery

About ARTISTIC NARRATIVES: Expressions of Self-Discovery

Expressed in three parts, the artistic narratives of three seemingly disconnected artists share a commonality: Awakening, Exploration, and Gratitude. As one leads to the next, we glimpse inspiration and aesthetics reflected in abstract form.  

Awakening

At least once in our lifetime, we all experience an awakening – a moment marked by self-discovery. It can be triggered by a significant event or purposeful learning, opening our eyes to new possibilities and potential. Artist Fleur Stevenson's work reflects on this transformative journey. Two Houses, Lounge and Waerenga House 1, capture the artist's awakening to memory and realisation. And Dancer, her immersive ballet piece, Fleur engages in the experience of discovery as she explores internal and external spaces through movement and dance. 

THE DANCER
BY FLEUR STEVENSON

"The Dancer" represents the artist’s personal journey as a former ballet dancer. It delves into the experience of being fully engaged in a dance (depicted in the left panel) and the perspective of an observer watching the dance (shown in the right panel).

Awakening an intrigue between internal and external spaces, Fleur explores how they can intersect and exist simultaneously. In creating the artwork, the artist treated it as a live performance of a specific dance, painting the left panel on the floor while physically moving around and using paintbrushes and rags to extend her movements. Taking a step back the artist portrays the liberation found in dancing without inhibition and the moments of happiness that can be discovered in our daily lives.  

Exploration

As we awaken to new possibilities, we embark on Exploration—a process that can last minutes, days, or years. This moment is emotive and profound, allowing us to delve deeper into connections with friends, lovers, and family. Here, we explore with Vanessa Ferriggi. The artist takes us on an intuitive journey, letting "creativity fly." When the Flowers Danced, Floral Notes 1 & 2, and Exotic Allure echo quests for meaning and belonging. 

WHEN THE FLOWERS DANCED
BY VANESSA FERRIGGI

“When Flowers Danced” is the exploration of the journey. As Vanessa says of her work, “is very emotive and intuitive. I only plan the colours, from there I let my feelings and creativity fly.”

The artist’s canvas is a space where spontaneity in each brushstroke is inspired with intention. Through a fusion of abstract motifs with botanical imagery, Vanessa’s work embraces the mystery and beauty of imperfection.  

Gratitude

In the spirit of gratitude, we acknowledge the discoveries made during these journeys of self-discovery. The artist Chalom's abstract forms and colours in Hezekiah express his journey towards gratitude for all we have before us. Santificazione 2 and Sunday embody a seeming realisation that follows. Yet Chalom's "The Wide Sargasso Sea" is most significant. It inspires a deep connection within lifelong relationships, a meeting where two become one, sharing the same life journey yet mindfully remaining as two individuals.

THE WIDE SARGASSO SEA
BY CHALOM

“The Wide Sargasso Sea” could be considered an exploration of the power in relationships between couples. The two meeting colours in the vast ocean of living life. Where in contrast to differences, the sea is immense and undefiable.

Gratitude is then given to each moment when two people meet as one and are yet able to respect each other's uniqueness.