08/29/2021
A central art-based resource for me throughout the pandemic has been this ongoing painting. I call it an “art-based ritual”. This painting depicts the daily, intimate interaction I have with the Bodhissatva of Compassion, Kuan Yin, for my own psychological, creative and spiritual well-being. Prior to the pandemic, but heightened during this last year and a half, I frequently find myself lost as an artist with “something worth expressing”, as a heart-led therapist serving clients struggling with the ongoing global trauma of COVID-19, and as a spiritual being who falters from his spiritual path in cycles and waves. Every time I chose to come sit in front of this painting - reflecting on it, sketching parts out, mixing the pigments - was time and focus spent in direct contact with my feelings, thoughts, beliefs and other viscera, as well as in healing contact with my most profound ally and role model. Part of the power of integrative healing paths, like EMDR work, is inviting a round table of Allies who grant us their support, wisdom, confidence, and bravery to help us when we are overwhelmed, lost, or disconnected. With this painting of Kuan Yin, I am given the grace and power to be the version of myself I most esteem. This painting is now on display in my art therapy office, creating an infinite ground for receptivity, compassion, straightforwardness, helpfulness, and friendliness to be part of the therapeutic experience. She invites the fullness of my clients each session, a gift and bounty that supports each of us in the therapy relationship.
