Canadian Abstract Artist Laurie Near- Fine Art

Satori Series 2009 - 2011

This series originates from a concept central to Zen Buddhism where “Satori”, in its simplest form, is described by Japanese Buddhist scholar D.T. Suzuki as a state of sudden spiritual enlightenment in which one becomes able to recognize and appreciate the “true essence or nature” of things. (Key aspects of this dogma include emphasis on inner stillness, intuition and the notion of impermanence). These multi-layered paintings are the result of a continuing exploration of the blending of traditional elements of Eastern art (balance, simplicity, “essence”) with key elements of Lyrical Abstraction (process, repetition, spontaneous expression). An avid naturalist (raised by a pair of hardcore “birders”) and a strong believer in basic philosophies regarding the interconnectedness of humans and the natural world, I can often be found hiking with my dog, taking in the scenery and quietly absorbing images and impressions for use back in the studio. Some more abstracted than others, these works are infused with symbols, colours and shapes inspired by elements of nature.