How My Travels and Global Events Shape My Artistic Perspective

Art is often seen as a personal expression, but it is also deeply influenced by the world around us. For me, traveling to new places, witnessing global events, and experiencing the aftermath of natural disasters have all played a crucial role in shaping my artistic vision. These experiences have expanded my understanding of humanity, nature, and resilience, which I strive to capture in my work.

Inspiration from Travels

Traveling has a unique way of opening the mind. Each destination offers new sights, sounds, and stories that spark creativity. For example, during a trip to Australia and New Zealand, I was inspired by the indigenous peoples strong cultures and the creative artistic backgrounds in both wood carvings and colourful paintings especially the Aboriginal dot paintings and have a body of work in these rustic symbolic story telling dot paintings.

In Japan the delicate balance between tradition and modernity fascinated me. Walking through ancient temples and bustling city streets, I noticed how history and progress coexist.

Travel also exposes me to different cultures and ways of life. In Mexico, the vibrant markets and intricate bark paintings introduced me to new patterns and colours. These details found their way into my abstract pieces, where I experiment with geometry and bold hues to evoke the sensory richness of that experience.

Impact of World Events Natural Disasters and Their Aftermath

Global events often bring a collective emotional response that resonates deeply with artists. The COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, changed how I view isolation and connection. The sudden pause in daily life and the shared uncertainty led me to create works that explore solitude, vulnerability, and hope.

Political movements and social justice has also influenced my art.

Natural disasters leave a lasting impression, not only on affected communities but also on those who observe from afar.

Tsunami Southeast Asia

After viewing areas hit by hurricanes and earthquakes and tsunami, I felt compelled to document artistically the tension between destruction and recovery.

In Southeast Asia, witnessing the aftermath of a tsunami brought a profound awareness of nature’s unpredictability. The resilience of survivors and the rebuilding efforts became central themes in some of my work.

The pandemic-inspired piece uses a clown inhabited circus and mask adorned puppets held by a government figure dressed as a court jester. The hot palettes in this painting reflect deep anger at the isolation the 'court jester' caused within families and communities.

Connecting with Viewers and Final Thoughts

Sharing these stories through art invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences and the world around them. I hope my work encourages empathy and awareness, reminding us that we are part of a larger global community shaped by travel, events, and nature’s forces.

Art can be a bridge between personal and collective memory, offering a space to process complex emotions and inspire action. Whether it’s the quiet strength found in a remote village or the urgent call for justice seen in protests, these moments shape not only my art but also my understanding of life.

Under the Jacaranda tree