A Boy And His Dolphin - 2015

This painting holds a very special place in my heart as my first completed piece. It’s one I’ve cherished over the years and still draw inspiration from, often referencing it within my newer works. It embodies the raw, expressive emotions I felt during a chaotic time in my life, filled with the trials and intensity of youth, and the irresistible energy of new paths and ideas.

My journey into painting began on a whim, as a natural progression from my earlier work in fashion design, photography, graphic media, and illustration. I started this piece on a repurposed canvas in a classmate’s studio, making the most of the precious hours I had after college classes. With limited studio time, my creative process was sporadic, often continuing at home, where I nurtured both the piece and my growing confidence in painting techniques.

Due to limited materials, I often found myself finger painting or throwing paint, which, instead of feeling restrictive, became a fantastic way to explore the physicality of painting. As I mentioned in an earlier reference, “Instead of seeing these early constraints as limitations, I chose to view them as an opportunity to emote and delve deeper into what I wanted to express. This piece brought me closer to myself and made me more aware of the effort and connection that expressive art requires, both from the artist and the viewer.”

This piece, with its mesmerising sfumato-blended tonal palette, holds a revered place within my oeuvre and is quite possibly my favourite painting I’ve ever created. Its bold yet quiet dynamism continues to captivate and draw in viewers, resonating with a powerful, alluringly enigmatic, and evocative presence.