Eastern religions believe that within the human body there are seven energy systems called chakras. The chakras are aligned vertically, running from the base of the spine to the crown of the head. When all of the chakras are opened, kundalini energy is released. Each chakra is connected to specific emotional and mental issues as well as different areas of the body. When there is a depletion in the power centre of a chakra, then it is often manifest as physical illness and/or emotional distress. Each chakra is also connected to a universal spiritual life lesson. As a person masters or opens each chakra, he/she achieves self knowledge that advances him or her towards enlightenment.
During the time period that I painted these images, I was beginning my spiritual journey. With each of these paintings, I wanted to create fluid expression. They are gestures and, hence, are loose which gives them an emotive and ethereal feeling. The lines encasing and emanating from the bodies are auras which depict a flow of energy.
There is only the face, the chakra and a simple form for the body. I highlighted the face because it is the autobiography of the soul. It is said that our faces reflect what is occurring within. The figures are static and forward facing to serve as mirror images. Not only can the viewer “see’’ oneself within the conceptual journey of the figure, but can also mirror the Divine within. The emotions and spiritual life lessons are also mirrored through the body.