Troubled Buddha And Other Art Projects

 I’m KL Perry, the artist behind the projects we’re going to talk about today. I want to give you a glimpse into my art, discussing not just the final pieces, but the revisions and the transformative processes they undergo.

My creative path is not a static one; it’s about growth, experimentation, and most importantly, connection. Whether it’s through altering colors or revising layouts, every change is a step in the ongoing evolution of my work.

Today, we start with ‘Troubled Buddha’, a project rooted in gratitude and reimagined through a fresh perspective. Just as the subject of this piece is awakened, so too is the art itself, through the vibrant lens of color.

This isn’t just about presenting new artwork; it’s also about reshaping what I’ve previously created. By holding on to the images of the original pieces, like ‘Troubled Buddha’, I keep the essence of my art alive, no matter how the physical pieces may change hands or transform.

Troubled Buddha: Awakening Art Through Revision

The story behind Troubled Buddha is as complex as the emotions it’s meant to evoke. Originally, I created this piece to express a troubling concern – how can one remain unmoved in a world full of chaos? I’m thankful for being able to gift the original artwork to someone who played a pivotal role in helping me set up a gallery; an act that represents the cycle of giving back.

But this isn’t just about a simple expression of gratitude; it’s also about the power of artistic control. Owning the images of Troubled Buddha means that I can revisit and revise them, breathing new life into the work without losing its original essence. This ability to adapt is crucial, especially for artwork that carries such a potent message.

Revision takes on a more profound meaning when you consider the transformation from the Buddha’s typically serene and meditative portrayal to one that’s actively engaged with the world’s troubles. This crucial decision to depict Buddha with eyes wide open is my voice in the conversation about global awareness. It’s a bold statement that challenges the normative depiction of peace as passive, and instead reimagines it as something that must be actively sought amidst turmoil.

My approach extends beyond experimenting with the figurative representation; it permeates the medium itself. Troubled Buddha has found its way from canvas to daily objects like mugs, serving as omnipresent reminders of the ethos it stands for. The original painting becomes a beacon for newer versions that carry the same powerful message, yet are more intertwined with the fabric of everyday life.

Exploring Color and Recreating Lost Art

Last year brought some challenges but also opportunities for creative growth. When one of my murals, painted with love and care, was unfortunately subjected to vandalism, I faced a wave of disappointment. It’s a tough pill to swallow, seeing your art, something you’ve poured your heart into, defaced. But art, just like life, isn’t static. It evolves, it changes, and sometimes, it’s reborn from adversity.

I remember staring at the vandalized mural. Do you know what I did? I painted it again. Not exactly as before because art never truly repeats itself, but close enough to capture the original spirit. In the face of loss, I chose creation over surrender. This experience taught me resilience and the power of the artistic spirit to overcome hurdles.

Recreating the mural was a cathartic process. As I mixed the colors, I realized I was also remixing my approach to art. My experimentations with vibrant new palettes injected a bold, fresh energy into some of my established pieces like the Tree of Life series. The fourth iteration of this series is shaping up, and it’s bursting with an intensity that makes it stand apart from its predecessors.

In my opinion, every artist has a signature—a thread that connects all their creations. For me, it’s been about storytelling and delivering messages. For instance, the Tree of Life isn’t merely a depiction of nature; it’s a symbol of growth, resilience, and interconnectedness. The evolving color schemes are embodiments of these narratives, unfolding in hues and saturations that speak to the viewer in an elemental language.

And now, with the colors of my palette, I’m not just revisiting the past; I’m striding into new territory. That includes extending my artistic voice into the playful and yet unexplored domain of game design, which nicely sets up the stage for our final discussion.

Art Meets Play: A Family Game Board with a Story

I’m pretty excited to share the final piece of the puzzle, well, in this case, the game board. Remember how I mentioned I was painting a family game board? I’ve been pouring my heart into this project, and I can’t wait for you to see it.

You might be curious about what makes this game board so special. It’s not just any old board game; it’s a painted representation of cherished childhood memories, a tribute to the mini games my kids grew up with. Each of the four sections is a different world, each one breathing with its unique essence.

The bricks, crafted by my son, have found their perfect home on this board, marrying the joys of art with the spirit of play. It’s been an adventure, creating something that not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also has the potential to bring people together.

While the painting is the star right now, I’ve got plans to have copies printed. If this game conjures as much joy as I hope it does, we’ll share it so other families can experience the laughter and creativity infused in every corner.

Wrapping up, seeing how art has the power to evolve, recreate, and now, bring joy in new ways has been incredibly fulfilling. Keep an eye out for this game – I believe it could be the start of something beautiful, not just in my family, but yours as well. Until then, keep creating and remember – sometimes, the most profound art pieces are the ones you can play with.

New Beginnings 2024! – YouTube