REFLECTIONS FROM THE ARTIST
Through art, engagement and shared experiences we aim to create a supportive and inclusive community space. We aim to connect with our shared reflections.
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CONTENTMENT
Oil and mixed medium on linen by artist Jo Kaiser
The Stillness Of Contentment. Contentment Comes From Within When Life Is Balanced. As I Painted, The Subject Was In Mind And I Found Myself Painting From One Hue To Another. In The Centre There Is Darkness Which We Have To Acknowledge And Accept Before We Can Feel At Peace. The Falling Of Colour Is Freeing. Finally, The Blue Hues Falling Into White Is The Cleanse And Ultimate Goal Of Contentment
MESSAGE FROM THE ARTIST
Jo Kaiser
Almost 20 years ago I lost my brother to suicide. Andy was my big brother. He was strong but gentle, reserved but funny, vulnerable and empathetic. He was human. When he decided to take his own life it shattered our family. My sister and I made a pact to never keep secrets about our own lives from each other, we have kept that promise as Andy's gift to us. We never fully recovered as a family and the mark it left in all our lives has left scars that each of us have had to care for in our own way. My paintings of expressionism have allowed my scars to heal over time. Sometimes the scars feel rough, sometimes they even weep. But I find that having courage to express through painting has allowed me to find peace for Andy and allowed my scars to slowly heal. Contentment.
COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS
Jo's artwork Contentment, reflects the fact that suicide can have many layers to its appearance, how it resonates with individuals and what people take away from the experience. For us all, the experience is deeply personal.
We invite others to share reflections and insights of their experience of suicide, with the purpose to create connection and share learnings.
We honour shared insights and invite you to contact us if you would like to add to our Community Reflections page. Email : mail@ncapes.org
