The kind of art and icons we're attracted to shows us who we are, where we are in our life and how we perceive the world. Feng Shui principles assert that whatever is on the outside is on the inside, as well. The nature of our homes and our workspaces are a mirror as to what is going on inside of us.
The kind of art and icons we're attracted to shows us who we are, where we are in our life and how we perceive the world. Feng Shui principles assert that whatever is on the outside is on the inside, as well. The nature of our homes and our workspaces are a mirror as to what is going on inside of us.
According to Carl Jung, famous psychotherapist and philosopher, "Whatever we are not aware of expresses itself in our environment." What is surrounding you, and what does it say about you?
First of all, do you have art? Art doesn't have to be original oil paintings or masterpieces. Any media that expresses feelings and symbolizes certain emotions can be considered art. If you have posters, religious statues and icons, pottery, photographs, etc., you have artwork in your home.
So now that we've agreed that you have art, what is your art reflecting about you? Sit in your favorite chair and close your eyes. Take a few deep breaths, slowly open your eyes, and try to look at your home with fresh eyes. What is surrounding you? How do you feel when you see the items around you? Are you joyous or saddened? Are you happy or guilt-ridden? These are just a few of the many responses you might feel.
Are these objects ones you purchased or given to you by a friend or family? Oftentimes, we keep well-intentioned gifts out of respect or guilt. Did you purchase the item at a different point in your life, where perhaps, it reflected how you were then? You may have out-grown its significance.
According to Karen Kingston, international space clearing author and teacher, there are three simple questions to ask yourself to see if an item is nourishing or inhibiting you: (1) Does your spirit lift when you see it? (2) Does it make you happy? (3) Is it genuinely useful? If you cannot say yes to any of these three questions, then you should get rid of it.
On the other hand, sometimes on a subconscious level, art selects us. We see something in a store or gallery and we immediately think "I have to have that!" Those are the purchases that really show a deep connection to our souls and uplift and inspire us.
In my workshops, over the years, I have had many people tell me about some new revelation when it comes to artwork.
Placement of art - One participant went home after my workshop and looked in her "romance" corner of the bedroom. She was having tremendous difficulty in her relationship and had shared that, perhaps, they need to part. After reviewing this corner, she noticed that there were three photographs in that corner: one of her on vacation, one of her boyfriend, and in between, a photo of the Grand Canyon!
Subject of art - Another workshop participant had related that she had had many years without a serious romantic relationship. After querying about her artwork, she mentioned that there were all images of single women in her living room and bedroom, one even of Marilyn Monroe! In fact, many single women have related similar stories to me. Perhaps images of single women were necessary at one point in their growth process - perhaps breaking away from dependent relationships and becoming independent - however, these images were no longer necessary, nor very helpful!
For example, take the symbolism of Edward Hopper's famous painting "Nighthawks." Below is an excerpt from Wikipedia on the painting:
"Nighthawk may be Hopper's take on the term "Night Owl", used to describe someone who stays up especially late. Hopper began painting it immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor. After this event there was a widespread feeling of gloominess across the country, a feeling that is portrayed in the painting. The urban street is empty outside the diner, and inside none of the three patrons is apparently looking or talking to the others; all are lost in their own thoughts. Two are a couple, while the third man is sitting along, with his back to the viewer. The couple's noses resemble beaks, perhaps a reference to the title. The diner's sole attendant, looking up from his work, appears to be peering out the window past the customers.
This painting is a very important work, however, it may not be very inspiring for relationships in your life.
I have had client after client installing artwork and icons that reflect what they want in their lives and inspiring them to reach new heights. Don't we want to project to the world that we are joyful, spirited, and attaining what we require in our lives? We should be projecting that image to everyone we encounter. Fill your home with inspiring art!
Comments