Written by Tammy Machmali
The Abstract Relief Collection was formed during the 100-day project I began on Feb 1, 2021. This happened when, after the first 30 days, I found myself uninspired, burned out and overworked. On the outside, I seemed successful but I was running myself crazy trying to work, paint, make patterns, take classes, and raise my two daughters. As a result of overscheduling, I realized I am disappearing and my heart is not in my work or anything I am doing because I abandoned myself.
“I have found more comfort in this space between thoughts and ideas lately; the space where it is okay not to know...to just surrender and trust in whatever beauty I have found.”
In a moment of desperation, I decided to give myself the grace of time and space to listen to my inner voice by slowing down, and creating from my heart.
Over the past several months, I started taking a break from my routine, working less, resting, spending time with family and friends. I did all the things I didn’t have time to do before: go to the gym, watch TV, read, and therapy.
Slowly, I felt like I was getting my groove back. I felt happy and ready, once again inspired to create from my heart. Each morning I go to my studio after meditating and working out, and pick my favorite colors and acrylics to paint, asking God to show me what to create. Some days I paint lines, shapes or patterns that will make sense only later. Some days, inspired by the flowers outside my studio, I sketch and paint them.
In this collection I use a mixture of abstract circular shapes, lines, strokes of acrylic paint, oil pastels, and delicate lines with pen on 9x12-inch watercolor paper.
This collection is a reminder that life is not linear and that we go through transitions and ups and downs. A new chapter represents change, healing, and growth. Each painting in this collection is an intuitive journey of colors, textures, and patterns I created while playing and exploring on this path of my spiritual journey.
I have found more comfort in this space between thoughts and ideas lately; the space where it is okay not to know...to just surrender and trust in whatever beauty I have found.
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