Notes From Nature
Unrequited Love (2021)
Originally existing as a candid photo captured of my sister one summer as she squirmed away from a moth, this moment became a long overdue return to creating with childlike wonder.
Although each of my paintings convey different meanings, there are a few sentiments that I aim to keep constant in the works I produce, namely an air of nostalgia and a whimsical quality. After experimenting for weeks on end, I’d come to find that I could achieve these by creating predominantly monochrome paintings, mainly comprising varying shades of browns and burnt oranges. I suppose I was informed by old photographs and videos that are limited in the range of hues they contain - to create nostalgic paintings, I concluded, I similarly had to stick to a limited colour palette. The issue was, I love colours.
After relentless trial and error, research and prayer, I discovered how to create scenes that are whimsical and nostalgic as they are colourful. It was euphoric and enthralling. I also added a border around the image, along with some text, inspired for my love of writing - the result, a painting that looks like it was torn out of a most cherished children’s story book.
Enjoying the process of creating, I also added small details that you discover upon closer inspection of the painting, hopefully not all at once, and hopefully always to your enthrallment. I feel these details help the observer share to some degree, the feelings of discovery and delight I was experiencing as I painted.
“Ask a Seed” (2021)
To whom it may concern:
You are never too deep in darkness for the light to find you, just ask a seed <3
I’ve had this little thought circling around my mind for a while and thought I should paint something about it.
I hope this resonates with whoever may be going through a period of darkness and reminds you that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel even though sometimes it seems unlikely.
But, don’t simply take my word for it, ask a seed ;)
Stark Green Leaves (2021)
Perhaps you fancy the rain,
For the way it cleanses the day,
And with a gentle, predictable beat,
Nuzzles you to sleep,
Or maybe you don’t like the pour,
Are unmoved by it’s steady hum,
Wishing it would free the clouds,
And make way for that blue expanse,
Then have a look at the trees,
Just after a heavy pour,
When their darkened water-soaked barks,
Contrast with bright green leaves,
Highlighting that colour in your day,
You earlier thought was stolen away,
Indulge each moment, why don’t you?
As it lays wonders at your feet,
And let life captivate you,
There’s plenty you won’t want to miss.
~ Davida Enara