Dreams & Memory
Dreams & Memory is a series of large scale watercolor paintings based on a Breuwen pilgrimage to Japan in 2017. This month long journey through seven very different cities fostered a connection and respect to the animistic culture of Japan. The inspiration from their culture and heritage is reflected in the paintings.
The watercolors are of Japanese landscapes, but with an intentional warped perspective. Each piece is twisted and appears to pull around the viewer; like a dream or memory. This series also explores how our memories changes each time they are remembered, and asks the question:
“Are memories any more reliable than our dreams”.
Sugi Dreams
Inspired by the island of Yakushima, one of the Osumi Islands off the south of Japan, with trees that are up to 10,000 years old, and most certainly alive. The lush green vegetation and the stillness of the forest are both beautiful and otherworldly.
Original Watercolor
Size: Approx 28"W x 43"L
Symphonic Dream
This painting is based on a tower in Hakone's Open Air Museum called “Symphonic Sculpture” by Gabriel Loire, a several story lookout tower of stained glass with a spiral staircase leading visitors to the top.
Original Watercolor
Size Approx 48.5" x 44.5" unframed
Sulfur Dreams
Inspired by the volcanic sulfur mines in Hakone. Only viewable via an air-tram through plumes of white clouds over a citric green landscape that is other worldly.
Original Watercolor
Size: 47.5"W x 44.5"H , unframed
Okunion Dreams
"Okunoin cemetery, Mt Koya Japan was one of the most spiritual places I’ve ever been. It was a blessing to spend a few days with the shingon esoteric Buddhist monks, participate in their meditations and rituals, and hear their stories about their beliefs. This piece is a funeral marker, and represents the 5 elements in their tradition, and it was such an honor to touch this marker in person, connect to it, and share it through art.” -Grey
Funeral marker from the Okunoin cemetery, Mt Koya Japan.
2 part watercolor 15"W x 22" (each piece 15"W x 11"H)