The Emotional Era

Header pic: “Panther” by ELIOLI

I am extremely zealous to be sharing this painting with you. Aside from the amazing detail and skills put into it, I find great fascination in the contrast between the woman’s reality and her dream. It’s a brilliant piece because it demonstrates the reason behind dreams and why we need them. The woman’s room is bland and lacks emotion; the main attraction of this piece is her dream, the big, red fish, made out of floral mesh, floating around her room. I believe that to be the reason for dreams anyway. To bring charm in even your blandest parts of life.

Utagawa Hiroshige | 1832

Karin Hosono | 2023

Clifford Bailey | 2020

A few months ago, I watched Julie Taymor’s biography/film "Frida". At the time, I had no knowledge of Frida Kahlo or her art so the movie was like a major enlightening experience for me. The more I explored Frida’s art the more I realized that good art couldn’t be produced from self hatred. I never knew someone could just have such genuine admiration for themselves. I questioned the effect Frida’s fondness had on her art and if it was crucial? I know now however, that you can’t make inspiring art with a hand you hate.

I’m uncertain about the name of this outstanding piece but it depicts two young girls, Legong dancers, preparing to perform a heartfelt, traditional Balinese show. However, this show isn’t just any old show; it is a story deeply rooted in the history of Balinese people. This specific show derives from an East Javanese folktale about the beloved, legendary, hero: Prince Panji. Prince Panji is alleged to have many, many adventures but this dance specifically focuses on a portion of his journey to win his kidnapped love, Princess Rangka Sari from the King of Lasem.

Maryam Mughal, 1987 | Figurative painter