As an alternation within the Floorpans of Connection, I wanted this piece of the collection to capture the empowerment of connection within a group. A collective that transforms oppression into positive expression.
Into the Capoeira circle ...
Capoeira tels the story of slavery, oppression and abuse on a global scale. It melts expressions, movements and music of mixed cultures. It transforms pain into empowerment and joy.
The first time I stept into the Capoeira circle I was 15 and ever since I kept coming back. Even through the discomfort of feeling awkward in a group, not knowing where to focus on, I kept finding a deep well of joy and empowerment after every session.
Collective connection is found here
Whether you're in a phase of fitting in a new job or a new country, I want this paintings to be a reminder that reenforcement can be found when we express ourselves. If we show ourselves, explain our needs, say no to things we do not like and shout yes to the melodies that makes us smile, then we will find our group. Then we can empower ourself with belonging.
The creative process...
The journey of this painting was tracing, both literally and figuratively. I had the creative challenge to capture the Capoeira movements and its precise order, while two people comfortable upside down, where revolving around each other. With my experience of the previous painting The element of surprise, this tracing challenge felt playful and comfortable.
