"I suppose you’ve found yourself wondering about those quirky little figures, mostly painted in black, that seem to float through my artwork. You’re not alone! Many people are intrigued by these whimsical creatures and often ask me what they are, what they represent, and why they appear so frequently. Let me take you on a journey to explain their role and how they came to life in my work".
A Spark of Inspiration
In my artwork, feelings and thoughts take center stage. Why? Because they profoundly influence our vibrational state and the frequencies we project into the world. My goal is to represent these concepts abstractly, making them both accessible and relatable. This is where my alien-like figures come to life—emerging on the canvas with a simplicity that belies their depth, each one infused with a unique personality (at least from my perspective).
My inspiration traces back to the enchanting films of Hayao Miyazaki, a celebrated Japanese anime director and storyteller. Miyazaki is known for his captivating stories that blend fantasy with deep themes of connection, nature, and the human experience. His characters often draw from Japanese folklore, featuring magical beings like the Kodama—tree spirits that appear only to those with pure hearts—and the playful Susuwatari, or soot sprites. These enchanting creatures resonated with me and awakened a sense of wonder that fueled my creativity.
I've always been captivated by Miyazaki's remarkable talent for conveying complex emotions with such depth and sincerity. The way Studio Ghibli brings these emotions to life is truly inspiring, blending artistry and storytelling in a way that resonates deeply with audiences.
The Emergence of My Figures I named 'Feelfis'
At first, I wasn’t sure whether I wanted these figures to be a one-time thing or a recurring theme in my work. However, as I painted, I started to see them as reflections of the feelings and thoughts we all experience. Each figure became a vessel for different emotions—joy, sadness, hope, and everything in between. They’re not just random shapes; they embody our emotional landscape and capture the essence of what it means to be human.
The distinction between emotions and feelings is subtle yet important. Here’s a breakdown:
Emotions: are immediate, instinctual responses to stimuli. They are often triggered by external events and can be intense and fleeting. They are automatic and physiological. They involve bodily reactions and can be observed in expressions, heart rate, and hormonal changes. Examples: Fear when faced with danger, joy when receiving good news, anger when treated unfairly.
Feelings: are the subjective experiences and interpretations of emotions. They are shaped by personal beliefs, memories, and experiences. They are more complex and can last longer than emotions. They involve a conscious evaluation of emotional responses and can be influenced by thoughts and context. Examples: Feeling anxious after experiencing fear, feeling nostalgic when remembering a joyful time, feeling content after feeling joy.
In essence, emotions are the raw, immediate reactions we experience, while feelings are the meanings we attach to those emotions over time. Emotions can be seen as the initial signals, and feelings represent our understanding and reflection on those signals.
My artwork is deeply connected to themes of healing and understanding the vibrations we experience through our feelings and thoughts. Influenced by thinkers like Nikola Tesla, who delved into the mysteries of energy and frequency, I strive to transport this concept to life through my art. My goal is to spark conversations around these themes, weaving them into the very fabric of my creative expression.
The Name of My Figures: 'Feelfis'
After much contemplation, I decided to name theseI whimsical figures simply 'Feelfis' (/fiːl-fɪs/). This playful title merges “feelings” and “figures,” serving as a gentle reminder of the emotions we carry and their influence on our interactions with others. The name feels light and approachable, hinting at a deeper connection to our emotional landscape while also inviting curiosity and exploration. It suggests a safe space to reflect on feelings and experiences, making it feel like a gentle reminder of the vibrant spectrum of emotions we all navigate. Overall, 'Feelfis' beautifully fuses art and emotion, celebrating the joyful journey of self-discovery and the connections we share with one another.
An Invitation to Reflect
As you engage with my paintings, I hope the 'Feelfis' inspire you to spark your curiosity and inspire you to embark on your own journey of deep self-exploration. What feelings are you holding onto—are they lifting you up or weighing you down? How do your thoughts color your view of the world? Take a second to think about the energy you put out there—what frequency are you vibing with, and how does it affect those around you? Do you notice how your feelings affect your relationships?
When we focus on nurturing positive feelings, we not only change our own lives but also create a wave of good vibes that can touch everyone we encounter. What if embracing that shift could open up a whole new realm of possibilities for you and the world around you?
Sometimes, all we need is a gentle reminder of the beauty that resides in our emotional landscapes. In a world that often feels chaotic, the 'Feelfis' serve as beacons of hope, urging us to embrace our feelings, honor our authenticity, and connect with others through kindness and compassion.
A Shared Journey
Through the 'Feelfis', I invite you to embark on your own journey of self-discovery, exploring the vibrations that shape your reality. Let’s celebrate the power of feelings and the connections they foster—both within ourselves and with those around us.
So, the next time you encounter the 'Feelfis' in my paintings, remember: they are not just figures; they are reflections of the emotions that weave our shared human experience together.