Hello!
I have been working on a new collection of paintings for the last 3 years. It started with a few plain air paintings in 2021 and has slowly grown since then, with a greater focus in 2022—2024.
Sakura trees have been of cultural significance to Japan for hundreds of years. Viewing and cherishing the Sakura season—Cherry Blossoms— with family and friends, is a highlight in Japan. Sakura blooms symbolize the idea of embracing the present, the fragility of life, and marking new beginnings.
These trees captured my attention when we first arrived—October 2020.
The thick, textured trunks and mosses— full of warm, earthy colors—were inspiring to me. I had not been around Sakura trees before. Once spring hit in 2021, I jumped back to the easel and the painting commenced.
I have loved these trees in the cool spring rain. I have been captivated by the delicate blooms against the thick, moss-covered trunks.
I remember the hot, humid summer days. They are filled with lush green leaves, birds and cicadas. And I am ever grateful for their shade.
I have embraced them in the grey autumn days with orange and yellow leaves, and with crows talking overhead.
And I have cherished them on the snowy days of winter, admiring the shapes and angles of the branches I know will soon be filled.
Passing under these young and old trees thousands of times in the last 3.5 years, have made me realize how they have been the background to routine, memories, and feelings. They have marked the passing of time.
And during the seasons when I notice these changes, it helps me to pause, and breathe just a little slower. They remind me to enjoy the present moment.
I am embracing the saying from the tea ceremony, “Ichi-go Ichi-e” which means, “One time, One meeting” and is a reminder to focus on our present moment with gratitude, for it cannot be repeated.
Living here in Japan I have had many “one time, one meeting” experiences with family, friends, neighbors, and acquaintances. All have inspired me.
This collection will be displayed in my home for one special night, the Spring Equinox—the day when light and dark are equal—to gather my community and share this collection, celebrating this season of growth and beginnings before we move.
While I have a personal connection to each of these paintings, I am more interested in your story of connection with Sakura season.
What do Sakura mean to you?
Ideally, I imagine us sitting down with a cup of your favorite drink, under the blooming trees and listening to your view point, your memories, your stories, and photos with the Sakura. I would be delighted to hear your connections if you have a moment.
So go ahead, comment below or send me an email. If you come to the opening night, I will have a sketchbook for people to add their stories and connections.
I’ll go ahead and share a quick one of mine— walking my senior dog down the street under the blooms. It was a memory, and still a daily ritual, I enjoy. I had to capture a picture last year. I have walked him many times without taking a photo, contemplating life with him. I savor these moments with him under the changing seasons with gratitude. Time feels slow when the blooms are out. And I really love that.
Your turn!
Artfully,
