ARTISTIC JOURNEYS
From the Head to the Heart
A Snapshot from 2015
The swirling blues and whites mirror the often chaotic path from logical thought to heartfelt feeling, while golden hues breakthrough like moments of clarity amidst life’s storms.
When I created this piece, I lived just four houses away from the beach in Melkbosstrand, Cape Town. The crash of waves, the taste of salt in the air, and the ever-changing moods of the ocean found their way onto my canvas. Little did I know that this artwork would become a poignant reminder of how quickly our lives can change.
The art world, like many others, experienced seismic shifts during the pandemic. Galleries closed their doors, and artists like myself had to adapt, moving from gallery representation to direct sales. This painting, which sold immediately upon completion, now resides with an unknown collector – a testament to the changing tides of the art market.
Artistic Process: Embracing the Cold Wax Technique
“From the Head to the Heart” marked my first exploration into the cold wax technique. This method, combined with oils, allows for rich textures and depth that perfectly capture the complexity of emotions I aim to convey. The process is as much a journey as the finished piece – layers build upon layers, mirroring the way our experiences shape us over time.
Emotional Resonance: A Universal Language
Art speaks when words fail, and this piece resonates with anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by life’s challenges yet sensed a glimmer of hope on the horizon. It’s a visual representation of resilience, of pushing through turbulent times to find moments of peace and clarity.
As an artist, I believe in the power of bold, vibrant colours and gestural motions to evoke deep emotional responses. My work, influenced by expressionist masters like Karel Appel and Willem de Kooning, embraces spontaneity and the therapeutic nature of creation.
Expanding Horizons: From Cold Wax to Encaustic Mastery
While “From the Head to the Heart” showcases my work with cold wax and oils, my artistic journey has led me to explore other mediums as well. My recent forays into encaustic hot wax techniques have opened up new avenues for expression, particularly in creating abstract landscapes that capture the essence of our natural world.
These encaustic pieces, which you can explore in my virtual showroom (https://lifeart.co.za/virtual-showroom/), continue to embody the core principles of expressiveness, spontaneity, and vibrant colour that define my work. They serve as windows into a world of hope and vitality, inviting viewers to embrace life’s beauty, even in challenging times.
Embrace the Journey.
In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, art remains a powerful force for connection, healing, and transformation. It reminds us that even in our most turbulent moments, beauty and hope persist; we need only open our hearts to experience them.
Art that breathes life—this is my mission, my passion, and my gift to you. Join me on this colourful, emotional journey from head to heart and rediscover the transformative power of art in these ever-changing times.
‘I am a wandering eye poet, an eclectic color fanatic. I want my paintings to leap off the wall and overwhelm you with their tactile, chocolate thick, color and texture.’
Leonie.e.Brown
