ARTIST STATEMENT [Why I Paint]
In truth, I stumbled upon the world of Art and the creation of Art. After losing my late wife to cancer in 2005, I was given a book that suggested art as a medium for healing from loss. I began to acquire art and discovered how it changed the environment in which it is placed— both subtly and dramatically. As I immersed myself in contemporary art history, I became interested in abstraction and impressionism. I was particularly inspired by Miro, Matisse, Kiefer, Diebenkorn, and Kandinsky, and visited museums with their works. I was also fascinated by the boldness and power of primary colors— which I use copiously. The messages behind Kiefer’s art moved me.
In 2011, my shamanic training coincided with my foray into becoming an
abstract artist. I was deeply moved by the Shaman’s role in caring for and protecting the environment.
My art provides me with a vehicle to send my own message regarding my concerns for our planet. I get my imagery from shamanic dreaming, visioning and meditation. Every piece is finished with a blessing for the acquirer and for the planet. Each piece has a unique signature.
Painting and art have been profoundly healing for me. it is my hope that it is equally healing for those who acquire my art and that it energetically shifts not just their surroundings but also their consciousness.
I am primarily self-taught. I have taken and will continue to take workshops with respected abstract artists to understand their perspective.
MY PHILOSOPHY ON THE CREATION OF ART
I want to push boundaries and challenge myself to learn, take risks, experiment and grow as an artist.
I want my art to reflect a unique point-of-view.
I want my art to reflect my own emotions – of joy, fear and anger – and not just technique.
I want my art to be bold and bring out emotions in the viewer.
I want my art to bring new energy to the space that it resides in.
I want my art to be approachable and appreciated by everyone.
I want my art to carry blessings to the acquirer.
I want my art to pay reverence to the planet and the environment.
I want my art to be about receiving and giving, honoring the principle of ‘paying it forward’.
20% of the proceeds from my art will go towards a school/home for blind children and orphans in Bangalore, India.
FEATURED COLLECTIONS
THE WEEPING PORTAL
As my journey as a shamanic artist began, I developed a unique ‘signature’ which has become an integral part of every piece that I create. I call it a “weeping portal” signifying our grieving planet.
It is an expression of both sadness and of hope – hope that we together can find appropriate solutions to address the issues that cause our planet to grieve.
“Slim has the heart and soul of a great artist. I have known and mentored him since he began his art journey over ten years ago. His art is powerful, bold and evocative – influenced by his shamanic path. He has a unique point-of-view that I have not seen elsewhere. The energy springing out from his paintings is palpable. He is unafraid to experiment and evolve.”