IMRIN SIDHU’s

Renaissance

re·​nais·​sance | \ ˈre-nə-ˌsän(t)s
Noun
Rebirth, revival

 

EPIPHANY, 2021, IMRIN SIDHU, Acrylic on canvas, 91.4 x 61 cm (36 x 24 in), $650.00

This painting represents the initial step in a transformational journey. Many transformational changes are preceded by an idea first, an epiphany. The first time I went to the grocery store after news of the initial lockdown, the air was tense and quiet, carts filled to the brim in preparation for the worst, and uncertainty swirled like grey clouds obstructing our view of the future. After taking a moment to settle, I began seeing signs of hope, unity, and love glowing beyond the peripheral noise. Then it clicked: in each moment we have the power to shape our world through our thoughts and actions. My realization confronted me with a choice between remaining comfortable and stagnant or embracing change with the hope that a brighter future lies ahead. How would I shape my world? How will you shape yours?

 

REDISCOVERY, 2021, IMRIN SIDHU, Acrylic & gold leaf on canvas, 91.4 x 91.4 cm (36 x 36 in), $1000.00

This is the first painting I created for the series and the inspiration for all the other pieces. As long as I can remember I have been drawn to the European Renaissance, inspired by its poetry, music, and art.  As a child, old works were my first exposure to art and defined what I knew to be art. In this painting, I juxtapose a colour palette typical of 14-16th century art with neon graffiti-like splashes.

The juxtaposition signifies who you were, who you still are, and who you are becoming, all simultaneously coexisting within you.  Just as the new paint splashes are layered upon the older style, a new sense of self is built upon past experiences.   

 

RESURGENCE, 2021, IMRIN SIDHU, Acrylic on canvas, 91.4 x 61 cm (36 x 24 in), $650.00

When challenges arise during a transformational journey, one may begin to question if it was worth taking the leap in the first place. This pivotal moment often requires quiet contemplation to refocus and attain clarity. Nature offers wisdom to those who are willing to look and listen; something I learned during the pandemic. Walking through a forest it may seem quiet, but if you really listen a buzz of energy is apparent, laced with stories of perseverance, abundance, love, and renewal. I developed a deep bond with nature in the last two years. When there was nothing else to do, and nowhere else to go, it was always there, flourishing, abundant, and giving. In this work, I’ve painted a delicate figure in a gilded frame cradled by a field of foliage as a reminder that reassurance and strength can be found in nature, and ultimately in oneself.  

I encourage viewers to stand close to this painting, so your entire periphery is filled with foliage to mimic the vastness and quiet intimacy of nature.  

 

REBIRTH, 2021, IMRIN SIDHU, Acrylic on canvas, 76.2 x 61 cm (30 x 24 in), $540.00

This painting represents the moment where a new sense of self emerges, a time of rebirth. The vibrant colour and movement suggest buzzing energy and renewed state of being, while the earth tones suggest an organic formation and fortification of one’s self-image. I created this piece in one day, in one sitting, over several hours. It poured out of a place in my soul in a way I can’t explain, in a moment of pure undisturbed joy. It was a chance to create a world where anything can exist, where the blue skies have no ceiling, just as there is no limit to one’s renewed sense of self.

 

ENLIGHTENMENT, 2021, IMRIN SIDHU, Acrylic on Canvas, 91.4 x 91.4 cm ( 36 x 36 in), $1000.00

This piece is markedly different from others in the series, representing clarity and decisiveness to contrast the more tentative probing of the journey. Originally painted entirely in red, for vigour and courage, something felt missing upon completion. Months later, after a conversation with my husband, I realized this painting was never supposed to be red. It was meant to be gold. Through its association with the sun, light, wisdom, and success, gold signifies a long-awaited and treasured moment of joy. I allowed some areas of the original red painting to peer through as an ode to the transformative nature of this series. The journey is different for everyone; the end and beginning are as subjective as everything in between. Every experience and journey is an investment in oneself, in the hopes that our choices and actions will lead to positive outcomes, to joy. When we invest in ourselves and are fulfilled, we are better equipped to invest in others and create a brighter collective future.

 

The European Renaissance marked the transition to modernity, with great social change following the crisis of the late Middle Ages in the 14-15th century. I began thinking, history has shown us that after a devastating period, the aftermath often gives way to innovation, social change, and personal growth. Covid has cast a shadow over the globe; it has been devastating and challenged humanity in countless ways.

It brings morality into question and shines a spotlight on privilege in developed countries. We are also living through one of the largest civil rights movements, with race, gender, equal pay, and religious freedoms being called into question.

Fortunately, the current climate has also shown us the kindness in humanity; it has fortified community strength and has been a time of collective reflection. The truth is we don’t know, and likely won’t know the complicated aftermath of this Covid Era for years to come, but if history is any indication, maybe a time of revival and rebirth awaits us, or just maybe we are on the cusp of rediscovering the good that was always within.

Practising as a Registered Nurse for nearly a decade, I was interested in exploring other avenues outside the hospital to serve others. I also recognized a need to express myself during a time of uncertainty.

Exploring abstract art, I realized that much like nursing art is nurturing, healing, connecting, and a means to spread joy. My intent is to create a space for dialogue and encourage the viewer to finish the narrative started by me, the artist, thereby, allowing organic connections to be made with the art.

By manipulating mediums, I explore the dichotomy between light and dark, gloss and matte, smooth and textured surface, and spontaneous versus purposeful brush strokes. I am drawn to the tension between these elements and find that opposites can produce a striking and meaningful visual experience.

This series represents a study of the emotions and experiences faced through a time of transition. These are the stories and moments that help define who we are, and propel us towards becoming a better version of ourselves.

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