The Singing Bird Will Come (2001-2008)

"If I keep a green bough in my heart, the singing bird will come." -Chinese Proverb-

The Singing Bird Will Come is a series of paintings featuring repeated images of bird, bonsai and goddess. The natural wonder of the "small world" is addressed with the ecological reality of both shrinking resources and attempts at conservation and containment. By miniaturizing the landscape and confining it into man-made receptacles such as bowls, cups and dishes, it is possible to protect, nurture and if necessary, regenerate that which is endangered. The combination of Eastern imagery with a representational style, explores various aspects of spiritual, environmental and culturally personal concerns from an Asian-Canadian perspective. Just as birds are able to navigate more than one element, their metaphorical association with qualities such as transmigration, freedom and the harbinger, allows for possible interpretations according to a diversity of reference.