Celebrating 25 Years as an Artist: A Journey of Creativity, Growth, and Gratitude
As I prepare to celebrate 25 years as an artist in 2025, coinciding with my 70th birthday, I reflect on a deeply transformative journey. Marked by challenges and profound growth, my path has been far from conventional, shaped by life’s unpredictable currents and a relentless pursuit of creative expression.
Recently, I’ve delved into the world of near-Death Experiences through podcasts, reflecting on the pivotal moments that have shaped my identity and art. This introspection reinforces the importance of gratitude, self-reflection, and creativity in navigating life’s complexities. Embracing curiosity and compassion, I look ahead with inspiration, eager to explore and create a deeper connection to myself and the world.
Rooted in Existentialism and Fine Art Photography
Driven by existentialist philosophy, my creative journey has been a relentless quest for the essence of life. This pursuit underpins my artistic vision and my passion for fine art photography. Inspired by the natural world and human nature, I uncover boundless sources of creativity that propel my work.
The sudden loss of my father at 14 awakened me to life’s fragility, setting me on a path of introspection. This profound event ignited a lifelong commitment to living fully, embracing learning, exploration, and creativity. Art became my salvation, echoing Julia Cameron’s belief in the innate creativity within us all. Through photography, writing, and painting, I connect with my true self, finding fulfillment in artistic expression.
Transformation Through Art
My work captures the dynamic nature of existence and illustrates the constant evolution of the human experience. Through a fusion of colours and imagery, I document life’s fleeting moments, reflecting the rhythms of nature and the intricacies of human connections. In my photography, I strive to illuminate the interconnectedness of all living things, drawing parallels between nature’s patterns and the human condition. By exploring themes of transformation and resilience, my art invites viewers to contemplate the profound interplay between the external world and our inner landscapes.
A Life Defined by Love, Loss, and Renewal
From a tender age, I embarked on a quest to unravel the mysteries of existence, venturing forth from home at the youthful age of 17. I pursued the transformative power of love, inspired by Søren Kierkegaard’s philosophy that humanity is incomplete without it. Yet, I learned that love, while profound, also carries the potential for despair. My nine-year marriage, spanning the U.S. and Belgium, ultimately led to heartbreak but also catalyzed my discovery of art. A gifted Yashica 35mm camera became my tool for renewal, allowing me to express the depth of my experiences.
Exploring Europe and Beyond
Some of my most cherished memories are of European escapades, from the bustling streets of Paris, London and Amsterdam to tranquil landscapes along the Adriatic coast. Road trips through Yugoslavia, still under the unified governance of Tito's communist regime, revealed breathtaking vistas and hidden treasures, sparking a profound sense of freedom and connection to nature. These experiences continue to inspire my work, allowing me to capture the timeless beauty of the natural world.
Embracing Gratitude and the Creative Spirit
Reflecting on my journey, I am reminded of Milan Kundera’s insights into the weight of existence and Deepak Chopra’s teachings on gratitude. True gratitude embraces all facets of life, including its challenges, offering a pathway to self-discovery and empowerment. Creativity, for me, is both a reflection of this gratitude and a means of understanding life’s intricate tapestry.
As an artist, I’ve taken leaps of faith, navigated uncharted waters, and embraced the road less travelled. Every experience—whether joy or pain—has shaped my journey, fueling my creative vision and deepening my understanding of life’s profound interconnectedness.
Comments