Artist Statement:
This is a paint-by-numbers piece that I completed over the summer. As I completed this piece, it was an opportunity for me to unwind and reflect upon the first year of medical school. In particular, I was struck by the beauty of the cherry blossoms. It is my understanding that cherry blossoms have a contradictory significance in Japanese culture. They mark life and death: they represent new beginnings while also representing the fleeting nature of life. I thought that this puzzling significance matched well with the apenndx theme “Enigma.” Additionally, I feel like this also matched well with the juxtaposition of the beauty of life and tragedy of death in medicine – both things that we will witness as healthcare providers. This was completed using acrylic paint and it is 16inx20in.
Accompanying Poem:
In the quiet dawn, the boat glides near,
Ducks paddle softly, their path crystal clear.
Ripples expand, a calm, soothing song,
In this moment of stillness, where I feel I belong.
Cherry blossoms flutter, a pink cloud of grace,
Each petal a lesson, a reminder of place.
In the journey ahead, many challenges reside,
Nature teaches resilience, a steadfast guide.
As future healers, we navigate fate,
Through waters of knowledge, we patiently wade.
With every small ripple, each lesson we learn,
Like blossoms in spring, we blossom in turn.
In the tapestry woven of hope and of care,
We find strength in each other, a bond that we share.
So here’s to the journey, the laughter, the strife,
As we set sail together, to heal and to thrive.
