My ramblings...

Posted by Lakshmi

Have been in hibernation since my last entry in January! So many things zapped by . So many things needed my attention. But, as they say, there comes a time when you realise that you don't want to zap through your life too and that time has come for me, I think. So, here I am, taking time to smell the roses, literally, if you see my pictures. Please do take your time, sit back comfortably and enjoy the journey as I have.

It's never too late to learn and that has been exactly what is happening to me . I actually started this on a fancy. I have always been game to trying something new . Must be because I am a Gemini. Geminis are always looking for new interest all the time, not content with what we have learnt. Anyway, this particular passion for painting went from a fancy to obsession. Interestingly, I haven't gone off the route, which I would have usually done. I mean, I knew I am an 'arty' kinda person (!) - I like dancing, singing, playing instruments, day dreaming, etc, etc but to have sustained this long in painting is a miracle for me too. I don't think I am going to go off course anymore......

Now, getting started, let me see,

A word of thanks to my teachers Tengku Norashikin, Ms Aniza Khir and Ms Zaitun a.k.a Olive .,who have all shared with me their knowledge and style. Great people they. Tengku Shikin was the first to introduce me into this art. I travelled all the way to Kajang and landed at her house at 8am! Sure had her shocked there. A great lady who was gracious enough to give me a cuppa so early in the morn without lecturing me when I deposited myself at her doorstep even before she left her bedroom ! Had loads of fun though. A strong and vibrant personality who believed in calling a spade a spade . No glossing over for her. A straight talking and gutsy lady if you ever saw one! You would never guess she could sing along, karaoke style, with most of the Lite & Easy radio requests. Phew!
Never a dull moment with her around and the motley crowd of students. Oh, a great cook too to boot. Some people are so lucky!

Now, about Ms Aniza Khir. If you are looking for a really really talented and skilled artist , she is the one I know. As soft spoken as a fluffy mimosa flower. Sweet natured too . Never says no directly to you, but you would know by her "mmmm..." or " why don't we try another colour ?" I could spend hours drawing with her and would'nt know the time passing by, then , realising that its late, step on the pedal and speed through the traffic all the way home!. I picked up the finer skills and points from her. Still am. There's so much to learn from her and most times, she overwhelms me with her knowledge and skill. When with her, I wonder to myself "Why the heck I didn't start this 20 years ago? I would have been as good as or better than her by now!! " Ha, ha, ha, very funny, is it not?

My other teacher has been Ms Zaitun a.k.a. Olive ( a literal translation from Bahasa Malaysia) I finally understood how to draw a rose which actually looked like a rose and not a mutant variety of one. A lady with a warm personality and charming demeanour, she understood my dilemma and gave me hope ! What a relief it was . I could finally, finally, attempt a smile and feel tall, among the weeds(!), when I saw my roses. At least, it resembled like one now and not a ninja turtle. I am really indebted to her for this single accomplishment.

I have by now drawn quite a number of artworks and each one of them has been a labour and I mean a real labour of hard work, sleeplessness and, above all, passion. A good many have been bought by my friends who saw my work and it is at times like these that a feeling of pride encompasses me. I dearly thank them for this as unknowingly,this has made be believe in myself and my craft. I think all artists feel this way too. I guess I have come a long way now . Of course, along the way, I've made many friends and acquaintances. A big hi to Norita, Rashidah and Roslin if you are reading this.

Readers can have a look at some of the pieces that I have done . What I especially like about this art is that not only do you learn a versatile and beautiful craft but that you can use these items for a practical and functional purpose too. The art pieces helps create an air of country living in our work stressed lives and helps transform a house into a home. At least, it has done for me. Having read one too many fairy tales during my childhood growing years has made me unconsciously reach for styles like these.

I hope you like what you see . You are absolutely welcome to make any comments. Your feedback would be really appreciated.

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