TorII I & II

A torii is a gateway marking the entrance to a sacred space. It represents a symbol of transition and power.

We live in a culture where vulnerability is often seen as weakness and we may experience shame as a result. Over time, I came to the belief that it is not weakness but power.

Not long ago, while traveling Japan, I was moved by the Torii gates - often marking the entrance to a sacred space or Shinto shrine and often covered in vermilion paint. Recently I also read about the one legged Torii in Nagasaki. It was constructed in 1652 and as a result of the devastating nuclear bombing of Nagasaki of 1945, only half remains. Today this is an icon and testament to both strength and resilience.

Torii I & II is part of my “The Space Within” series completed in 2021.



‘The space within’, series reflects on the space within our minds and thoughts. The space within our relationships. Spaces within our homes and work that have changed over the last two years. On various levels our lives changed as we faced geographical changes, isolation and the absence of connection.

Through this series the color palette remained mostly monochromatic, with an emphasis on grays and blacks being in juxtaposition to the emotional content. However, I do view neutral tones as symbolizing power, as I view vulnerability not as weakness but as strength.

Some of the pieces in this series have strong vermilion vertical elements also indicating strength and growth, while subtle ochre in others represents hope. Often graphite marks are present indicating that these pieces may not be quite finished -not unlike our stories. In some areas illegible text can be seen -also a reference to the story of our lives continuously being written.