Embracing Change

Today, I would like to share a story and some insights into my artistic process.

As you may know, on March 28, 2025, a devastating earthquake struck Myanmar, shaking many of the buildings all the way in Bangkok. During this tragic event, my painting, The Ultimate Supper, was damaged when it fell, leaving a hole in the mask and neck of a Commedia dell'arte character. At that time, my family and I were in Mexico, celebrating our grandson's baptism.

As an artist, I have a deep emotional connection to each of my works, so it was painful to see one of my favourite pieces damaged. However, in the grand scheme of things, this was insignificant compared to what others have endured during this time. Instead of trying to repair the hole to make it look as if nothing had happened, I decided to embrace the change. I decorated the torn area with tulle from a baptismal keepsake—a fabric that symbolises purity and the delicate nature of life. This tulle now forms a collar around the character's neck, integrating this moment of fragility into the artwork's overall resilience.

Inspired by Da Vinci's The Last Supper, this painting offers my unique interpretation of the intricate tapestry of the human experience. The theatrical characters, drawn from the rich tradition of Commedia dell'arte, embody profound themes of imperfection, temptation, perseverance, and rebirth within life's dramatic stage. I believe that the physical damage the painting has endured now enhances this narrative, reminding us that life is fragile, yet new beauty and meaning can emerge from unexpected fractures. I welcome your thoughts and insights!

My heartfelt sympathies go out to all those who have been affected by the earthquake.