Sit I Zen

Philosophy
In our near future, if we have all citizens knowing their rights, less destruction of our constitution
can prevail.
Practicing our freedom is the only way one can have freedom.
Instead of living in fear- which is living without liberty, we should take more time to be thankful for our freedoms, and
a clear understanding of them.
I am using the concept Sit I Zen for this painting.
A play off of the word citizen.
One meaning of the term Zen is to experience reality.
Zen to me has always held a certain silly factor.
Being able to laugh at our mistakes can allow us to be more humble in fixing them.

Theory
I want to create a precious surface without to much closure to the painting.
In the sitting,shadowed figure I want the viewer to feel it can be them. Indirectly diminishing the sense of the individual and embracing the community/ collective.
The figure is life size.
The lantern becomes my focus/canvas, which represents the pursuit of happiness.
I am using the sitting/seated figure as used in our cultures symbolism- thoughtful reflection
As the “shadow” an impression/ reflection of ourselves.
The lantern is raised to help guide us to our future.

Process
I am working with acrylic paint on paper.
The paper is gessoed then stretched to have a flat surface.