A Closer Look

Here’s a quick departure from my recent Tree of Life and cosmic themes–my newest painting in my Lotus series!

This painting is called “A Closer Look” because to me, it gives the feeling of really slowing down to examine this lotus flower, half-bloomed on a backdrop of glossy green leaves. The image is sort of zoomed-in, the flower larger than life.

A Closer Look. 24" x 30", Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee
A Closer Look. 24″ x 30″, Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee

When we take the time to look up close at beautiful things like this, we access another layer of wonder–the beauty in the details–that we might not notice just in passing. The title has an alternate meaning to me as well, because of the spiritual symbolism of the lotus flower. The lotus is associated with transcending beyond the physical, reaching for something beyond the daily distractions and attachments we all deal with.

Close-up detail: A Closer Look. 24" x 30", Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee
Close-up detail: A Closer Look. 24″ x 30″, Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee

In the act of meditation, or even just slowing down to take a few deep breaths, we are taking a closer look inside ourselves, taking stock of what’s going on in the mind and the body.

Close-up detail: A Closer Look. 24" x 30", Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee
Close-up detail: A Closer Look. 24″ x 30″, Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee

This painting to me is about reflection, examination, slowing down, appreciating. I quite think it’s a good image to gaze upon while taking a time out to breathe deeply and relax.

Close-up detail: A Closer Look. 24" x 30", Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee
Close-up detail: A Closer Look. 24″ x 30″, Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee

Splashy and colorful, it’s also about love and happiness!
The oil paint is mixed with cold wax medium and was painted with a palette knife. I can’t tell you how beautiful the texture of this piece is in person!

Close-up detail: A Closer Look. 24" x 30", Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee
Close-up detail: A Closer Look. 24″ x 30″, Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee

The painting makes a huge impact on the wall.

A Closer Look. 24" x 30", Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee
A Closer Look. 24″ x 30″, Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee

It’s of a good scale to be the focal point of a beautiful room.

Artist Cedar Lee with painting: A Closer Look. 24" x 30", Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee
Artist Cedar Lee with painting: A Closer Look. 24″ x 30″, Oil on Wood, © 2016 Cedar Lee

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