Dear Art Lover,
Can you believe that I started these paintings well over a year ago?
In September 2024, I got out several watercolor papers, picked 3 colors, and started laying down inks.
No planning. No thinking. Just being free.
Somewhere along the way, I put these aside and began working on oil paintings, and the turtles were left forgotten...until more than a year later.
ABOUT THE COLLECTION
In some ways, I've always felt a little bit like a turtle.
As I brainstormed titles for this collection, Shelltered just fit so perfectly.
A little playful with the spelling, but it still holds a deeper meaning, representing my life.
Growing up in an Asian household, I spent most of my life feeling...well, sheltered.
Taught to stay safe, stay polite, be ambitious but also stay small.
To constantly anticipate thus prepare for dangers and threats, many of which I later learned were perceived.
a new kind of shell
Earlier on in my younger years I broke free from these âsafe zonesâ. Became bolder, curious, a risk-taker.
In adulthood I learned that there is a different kind of shell you learn to build for yourself.
A shell made of boundaries. Of rest. Of knowing your energy. Of choosing the people who get close. Of learning what makes you feel safe in your own skin.
To me, these turtles are the perfect reminder of the balance we crave: when to retreat and when to protect our peace. When to slow down and when to bravely stretch our head out into the world.
I hope these paintings remind you that it's okay to create safety for yourself.
Itâs okay to tuck in when necessary and emerge when youâre ready.
This collection is for you who is growing at your own pace.
This collection is live now. Check it out her.