25 years ago, my mother suddenly passed away at the end of March.
Although we were able to visit her at a hospital in Japan as a family from Switzerland, afterwards, the busyness of the funeral kept us occupied, and days passed by swiftly after returning to Switzerland, leaving a gaping hole in my heart. Eventually, I felt compelled to heal myself, so I began to paint. Since my mother passed away suddenly, one of the things I had thought “I’ll do it someday!” to ensure there were no regrets was painting.I painted numerous oil paintings from midnight until morning, heading to the canvas. I painted landscapes that genuinely moved me, portraits of familiar faces, abstract fantasies, and more. Facing the large canvas and playing with various colors, I felt my heart being healed. In life, there are situations that everyone encounters where you cannot do anything about it yourself. In my case, I was saved by painting. At that time, my daughter, who was still very young, also began to enjoy painting fun pictures together with me.
Now, why is it that the heart feels healed when involved with colors? When I investigated, I found the following reasons:
There are several reasons why painting with various colors heals the heart.
Creativity and Expression
Painting is a form of self-expression, allowing one to transform their emotions and thoughts into colors and shapes. Engaging in creative activities can reduce stress and anxiety, restoring inner peace.
Focus and Mindfulness
When painting, focusing on the task of applying colors can lead to a state of mindfulness. Concentrating on the present moment can release one from everyday worries and stressors.
Sensory Stimulation and Brain’s Pleasure Response
Changes in color and shape stimulate the brain visually. Specific colors and patterns can trigger the pleasure centers in the brain, resulting in a pleasant sensation.
Sense of Achievement and Satisfaction
Completing a painting can provide a sense of achievement and satisfaction. Viewing the beautiful artwork created by oneself can instill confidence and fulfill the heart.These factors combined contribute to the healing effect of painting.
After painting a lot for one to two years, I stopped because there was no longer wall space to display them.
However, at that time, I felt that painting was a therapy for healing.
Now, I have the opportunity to exhibit such paintings. An English friend who is a ceramic artist asked for photos of my paintings, and when I sent them, they said, “From April 11th to 14th, there is a joint exhibition. Would you like to exhibit these paintings?”
So, there is the following exhibition:
In Albstadt Hall Zug, nine artists are holding a joint exhibition. The combination of shapes and colors integrates the diversity of works on various levels such as spatial, creative, professional, emotional, cultural, and passionate. This exhibition will inspire both visitors and exhibitors alike.
Paintings: Adema, Minna Ahlberg, Max Atanassov, Caroline G. Hoem, Faye Hofmann,
Petra Miettinen, Karina Zhang, Katsura Suzuki(Rie)
Ceramics: Maggie Atanassova
Opening Hours
Thursday, April 11th, 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Vernissage),
Friday, April 12th, 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.,
Saturday, April 13th, 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.,
Sunday, April 14th, 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Please come and visit if you can. For those who cannot come, we will make sure to keep you updated with the gallery’s progress.
