“Lunar New Year” by Artist Longhua Xu. . .
Artist’s Statement… by Longhua Xu
Art comes from the soul of the artist. Inspired pieces come from inspired artists. February generally marks the Chinese Lunar New Year in the East and Valentine’s Day in the West, and this year I am inspired by my family.
For the first time in several decades, both of my children are home – particularly my daughter who recently moved back to Hot Springs with her family.
In this piece, the red color of the background and the phoenix depicted symbolize love and rebirth, key themes to the Confucian history of China.
The pattern of the yellow clothing resembles that of a snake, which is the current new lunar cycle and a symbol for rebirth and rejuvenation in the East as well.
In the bottom right corner of the image, you see an example of the work done by my talented granddaughter who inspires me every day. The mother and daughter depicted represent both my daughter and granddaughter who have returned to Hot Springs, as well as my wife and daughter so many years ago.
Rebirth is a very fitting theme to my life in America, as after immigrating to this great nation over 30 years ago, my wife and I made a new home here in Hot Springs.
Mothers and daughters have always represented love and happiness in my heart and have been an inspiration to me throughout my life. I hope that you can share and feel my love and happiness in this piece through the sweet image of this mother and daughter duo.
View more of Longhua’s exceptional work at www.xu-longhua.com.
EDITORS NOTE: A simple request for a piece from Longhua’s mother/daughter series resulted in this deeply moving, specially created artwork. It perfectly captures the love that Valentine’s Day represents, with every element coming together to make it the ideal Valentine’s Day cover.
May all your hearts be filled with love and warmth this month of love, embracing the beauty of connection and kindness.
A heartfelt thanks to Longhua for creating this loving piece for our February cover. JoAnn and The Springs Team.
