My philosophy and approach to art is pure and simple: It is essential in life, an emotionally engaging lifeline that connects external environments with internal landscapes. My approach is to keep this precious lifeline open with passion, humor, color, iconic imagery; to allow the occasional creative meltdown; and to listen to guidance through yoga, meditation and my muses.
I use various media in my artwork such as acrylics, texture paint, molding paste, gemstones, crystals, natural stones, resin deities, glass tiles, found and recycled objects, canvas and clay. Wood is the foundational material in most of my work, as I love its distressed textures. It lends natural support, strength and durability.
I have a deep attraction and affection for Asian and Indian art and culture, and I feel a strong spiritual connection to iconic symbolism and representation in the Buddha and Hindu deities. I thirst for knowledge and wisdom from Eastern religion and philosophy, which has led me to begin learning the Yoga Sutra teachings. These influences come through in my Geisha and inspirational paintings, and on the lighter end, my sense of humor comes out in my whimsical and functional art pieces.
Marilyn Grad is a Chicago-based mixed media artist and yoga practitioner. To see more of her art, visit her website at marilyngrad.com.
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