Untitled (Lily by my Window) 1970

This painting presents a serene landscape dominated by stylized natural elements. The most striking is the lily, centrally placed, a symbol of purity and rebirth across cultures, from ancient Egypt to Christian iconography where the Madonna lily embodies the Virgin Mary’s innocence. Note how the artist has situated the lily within a broader setting featuring a bird perched atop a floating form. This recalls the symbolism of birds as messengers, linking the earthly and spiritual realms, an idea echoed in numerous mythologies. Consider how the bird motif reappears, albeit transformed, in modern surrealist works where it becomes a symbol of freedom and the subconscious. Such imagery is deeply rooted in our collective memory, evoking primordial connections to nature and spirituality. These are not merely aesthetic choices, but potent symbols engaging our subconscious, stirring emotions tied to our deepest cultural narratives. The painting thus becomes a canvas where ancient symbols are revived, reminding us of the enduring power of visual language to transcend time.