Rediscovering Harmony: A Journey of Balance and Symbolism

The Geometry and Symbolism of the Circle

In January, my fiancé Benjamin and I embarked on a trip to Niseko, Japan, to enjoy some extended quality time together. While we were there, I centered my creative focus around observation rather than solely painting, focusing on a specific vignette. In moments of creative uncertainty, a clear focal point becomes a valuable starting point for my artistic endeavors. In this case, playing with the image and symbolism of the circle as it appears in the form of physical objects in the world. 

After arriving in Japan, I meticulously identified and counted 50 circular objects in a single day, deepening my connection with the symbolism of the circle and unveiling the balance inherent in this geometric form. As I observed the prevalence of circles in my surroundings, their harmonious and symmetrical qualities became increasingly apparent.

This visit (pictured above) was one of the most memorable encounters of my trip where I had the opportunity to meet Shouya Grigg, a rebel with a cause and the founder of this sanctuary hotel where old meets new. This was the only picture I took of the space since I wanted to be fully present and take everything in. This circular sculpture is by Japanese artist Masayuki Nagare. If you are in Niseko, please visit this magical place and if you are so lucky stay there.

The inspiration for this exercise stemmed from my encounter with the circle symbol while exploring the word “Sanctuary” at Oxbow in Napa, California. “Sanctuary,” rooted in “Sacred,” symbolizes the divine nature of the circle, a concept deepened by my fascination with circles and my connection to Rick Ruben’s insights in The Creative Act: A Way of Being. Ruben’s perspective that being an artist is a continuous mindset resonates with me, emphasizing constant observation and collaboration with nature.

This journey in Japan transformed into a reflective exploration of balance and symbolism. The circle, once a mere geometric shape, evolved into a metaphor for the interconnectedness of life and the constant pursuit of harmonious equilibrium. Through this exercise, I uncovered profound equilibrium within the simplicity of daily objects, waiting to be observed and appreciated.

My Palette

My Folio Palette includes the following colors (I have doubles and triples of Payne’s Gray and Indigo!)

Row 1: Quinacridone Rose, Pyrrol Scarlet, New Gamboge (top), Ice Green (bottom), Hansa Yellow Light, French Ultramarine, Phthalo Blue

Row 2: Indigo, Neutral Tint, Fuchsite Genuine, Purple Lake, Duochrome Violet Pearl

Row 3: Payne’s Gray, Hooker’s Green, Indigo, Lunar Black, Payne’s Gray, Permanence

Row 4: Indigo, Indigo, Payne’s Gray

A Memorable Time in Japan

Typically, in our shared adventures, I seek a serene space for painting while my fiancé Benjamin immerses himself in skiing. However, this time, to our surprise, I discovered an interest in skiing and took a lesson where I took on the mantra, “Zen mind, beginner’s mind.” 

Delighting in this experience, I eagerly anticipate embracing skiing to connect with nature from higher altitudes, drawing inspiration from my friend Nikki Frumkin of Drawn to High Places, much like observing Mother Nature from an elevated perspective. Skiing, as I discovered, is similar to the art of watercolor painting and involves a delicate balance of pressure, mirroring the ebb and flow of snow. The joy of finding another medium to enter a flow state became evident as I moved my arms from side to side, maintaining balance.

I had many opportunities to take out my new Pocket Art Toolkit and sketch during this trip!

This pepper and salt from Hokkaido was served with our dinner. I asked to take the leftovers back with me so I could paint with it. If you look closely, you’ll notice some metallic paint as well. I recommend playing with salt crystals in watercolor when you get the chance!

Below, I’ve shared some bonus images from a special meal out.

I hope you enjoyed hearing about my journey and exploration into circles! For those intrigued by geometry and symbols, I recommend The Beginner’s Guide to Constructing the Universe: The Mathematical Archetypes of Nature, Art, and Science by Michael S. Schneider. I’m curious to know what shapes or vignettes you might observe in a day and how they may shape your future creative projects.

Prompt

Will you pick a symbol and study it? I hope so!

– Sophia

All images courtesy of Sophia Trinh.
Learn more about Sophia Trinh and her current work on her Ambassador page.