Dryad (unfinished)

IMG_7028.jpeg

Dryad

194 x 48cm

Mixed media on vintage handwoven linen scroll

2018

Dryad was created during the residency at the Koppel Project Gallery. I wrote on the residency here as well as the research around this work here.

Dryad was the first work using the subject of Power Places within the structure of the body as a way of creating. Looking into vortexes and chakras, their colour and how these irrigational whirlpools are interconnected was a way for me to explore on canvas, linen, or in sculpture…

Dryad coming to life step by step

IMG_7114.jpg

I really love this depiction to the left by de Morgan, one can really sense the sensitivity, fragile serenity of this dryad, I was inspired to express that in my shamanic way.

Dryad is a nymph or a spirit that lives inside a tree, known to be shy. The nakedness of this female archetype at the time really resonated with me as at the time I felt hiding was a way of self-preservation and protection.

What came out was also a very gentle panel that some even called dreamcatcher. Recently I started to make dreamcatchers embracing the rustic feeling and using driftwood, seeds, shells, etc.

The work debuted during the show at the end of the residency period and selected by Alexander Stavrou for the ‘No captcha thanks

Dryad calls for rituals, power circles around it, shamanic dances, and magical experiences. It is has a living spirit within the artwork that needs to be danced.