Hard:Rewired2

February 2023, Saskatoon, Canada. 

The past five months of renovating a second property for my mother have been a trying experience. Resentment, anger and fear between myself and my younger sibling had created a tense atmosphere, causing me to feel anxious and overwhelmed. It came to a close tipping point while I was lying in bed on the verge of an anxiety attack. The feeling of dread came over me. I tried to contact my other sibling and several friends overseas. No one was immediately available, but alas my sister came online while I was 20 minutes into a strength yoga YT video. I decided that a difficult conversation was needed with my sibling, one that would mean no shouting or arguing that could induce an outburst of anger, not only from my sibling but myself included. 

Day of reckoning. The discussion lasted no longer than 15 minutes. Surprisingly, there was no outburst of anger. No triggers.

Days passed. Although the immediate stress level tapered, I realised my mind was on constant repeat of negative thoughts. I returned to working out at the local leisure centre. It’s well documented that working up a sweat helps dissipate or lessen depression and anxiety. But I knew I had to do something creative and to channel the negative energy into painting. I have done it before in Hong Kong. London gallerist McKay Williamson at MKW Creative suggested I approach my new pieces similar to previous works of mine, namely the Hard:Rewired series, reminiscent of street art. It was the perfect approach to my condition.