It starts with inspiration, in this case, the small pod left behind by a lotus blossom. There is something mysterious about it, with its tiny chambers. Some are empty, and some are holding tight to seeds that are now dry and will never experience the bloom.
I was so inspired by this little dried pod that it started showing up in my work. I was not only inspired by the form itself, but by the meaning behind the lotus flower; strength, resilience and rebirth.
Creating the pieces from lightweight ceramic and lifting them away from the wall allowed them to cast shadows, adding depth and intrigue. But what if I added color? What color would be best? Paint, glaze, gold leaf? What if the color was on the back and reflected off the wall? What if I changed the shape? Each “what if” led to another test, another trial. Some pieces serve as stepping stones in my creative journey, while others evolve into completed works of art.
“Echoes of the Lotus” is the latest of these.
The process of creating “Echoes of the Lotus” was both challenging and rewarding. Each piece was meticulously crafted, starting with the careful selection of lightweight clay. The intricate patterns of holes and chambers were inspired by the lotus pod, symbolizing the mystery and beauty of nature.
The addition of golden elements was a deliberate choice to represent the seeds of potential and growth. These golden seeds, interspersed among the ceramic pieces, catch the light and create a dynamic interplay of shadows and reflections on the wall.
The installation process itself is an art form, requiring precise measurements and placements to achieve the desired floating effect.
“Echoes of the Lotus” is not just a visual experience but an invitation to reflect on the themes of strength, resilience, and rebirth. It is a celebration of the beauty found in nature and the endless possibilities that arise from asking, “What if?”
Linda Maxson