Monasteries of Reflection
Kai L.
Acrylic paints, gloss glaze, air dry clay, foam clay, black pen, cardboard, cube foam blocks, sculptamold, moss, popsicle sticks, hot glue, super glue, natural rocks,
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This sculptural piece reimagines the iconic mountains and monasteries of East Asia as a vibrant, surreal landscape full of personality and symbolism. The mountain has large, colorful monsters whose expressive faces are capped with ornate temple roofs, blending the traditional architecture with playful fantasy. Each monster represents a distinct state of mind encountered on a spiritual journey; the mountains bring the viewer into an exploration of self that is as chaotic as it is sacred. Waterfalls cascade down the mountain’s slopes and we can find connecting bridges where tiny monks wander through the terrain. These figures embody the meditative journey of self-reflection, exploring the various “temples” within—a metaphor for the trials and insights gained in spiritual exploration. The piece is a celebration of the dynamic interplay between the sacred and the whimsical, inviting viewers to consider their own inner mountains and the colorful monsters that shape their personal journeys.
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To me, creativity shows mastery of demonstrating the ability to think ideas from my own thoughts. Creativity also means that using an old subject to build on to improve it with your own ideas. It also means to borrow ideas from another to combine them into one.