WARRIOR SERIES (Four Paintings)

2024 Acrylic on Canvas 29 x 29 cm

When I was a child, my younger brother used to keep freshwater fish. One of them was the Betta fish, also known as the Siamese Fighting Fish. These striking creatures possess a unique breathing organ that allows them to survive in low-oxygen environments, and they are fiercely territorial. When two males are placed in the same tank, they will fight—often to the death. Even females can become aggressive if kept in confined spaces. 

As a child, I was captivated by their vibrant colours and elegant forms. I would watch them with a sense of awe and wonder.

This Warrior Series is inspired by the Betta fish. Over time, I began to see each one as embodying the spirit of a warrior—much like us humans. While we may not always think of ourselves as warriors, the theme of war runs deep in the human experience. Spiritual teacher Caroline Myss teaches that we often engage in unconscious battles, especially in the form of “power plays” in our interactions with others. It is only by becoming conscious of this inner warrior—this powerful force within us—that we can learn to master it, rather than be controlled by it.

Alpha and Betta

This painting emerged from my reflections on my own relationship with my inner warrior. The “Alpha” in me perhaps doesn’t want the “Betta” around—unless I’m the one in charge. I painted them together as a kind of prayer for acceptance. I believe my life would be more peaceful if I could simply accept the presence of the Betta within me, instead of trying to suppress or eliminate it whenever it arises.

While setting boundaries is important, reacting with aggression—trying to fight or destroy something just because it enters our space—can be both dangerous and misguided.

This piece is a reminder of the power of coexistence, inner harmony, and self-awareness.

We Were Born to Bloom

The Betta fish stirs the memory of the ancient Warrior Archetype—a sacred force dwelling deep within the soul. This warrior does not rise for ego or conquest, but moves in quiet devotion—to defend love, uphold peace, honour justice, and protect all that is holy and life-giving on this Earth.

While painting this piece, I hadn’t yet chosen a title. But after the final brushstroke, something unexpected revealed itself—like a flower blooming in a woman’s hair. That moment of realisation gave the piece its name: "We Were Born to Bloom."

Life on Earth can be harsh—many of us struggle each day just to survive. And yet, we were born to bloom. But how can we truly bloom when survival feels like a constant battle? Perhaps the answer lies in the mystery—in surrendering to the unknown, in learning to trust what we cannot see. Even in the darkest of soil, a seed holds the memory of light.

No matter our circumstances, we are called to let our light shine—to bloom, not because the world makes it easy, but because it is our nature. 

A flower does not bloom because others do. It blooms because its time has come. It does not wonder whether it will be plucked or left to fade. It simply blooms.

The power of a flower is immense—brief, yes, but uniquely beautiful and endlessly inspiring. May this piece serve as a gentle reminder of that truth.

Fire Dancer

This painting draws its breath from two muses: the flamboyant Betta Fish and the late, legendary Tina Turner and her song Fire Dancer.

I am enchanted by the song and the story its title whispers—of dancing with flames, caught in their wild beauty, yet always on the edge of being consumed.

As a child, I was spellbound by candlelight fire. I gathered melting wax, heating it up and shaping it into little spheres, watching them glow brighter and burn hotter, my excitement rising with the heat. I dared to test how much warmth my fingertips could bear, only to be scolded when the adults saw my secret game.

To dance with fire is to confront our inner strength—to move boldly, yet with care—lest we drift too close to danger or cross the threshold beyond return. The myth of Icarus, who soared too near the sun and fell as his wings melted, and plunging into the sea, stands as a timeless warning: courage without humility can lead to ruin.

I hope to convey that message through this painting.

You Are Always by My Side

The Betta fish reminds me of the Warrior Archetype.

I carry an inner warrior who walks beside me always. May I remember her presence, and may I learn to meet conflict with kindness, and rise to challenge with grace.

The Siamese Fighting Fish is a creature both elegant and fierce. A warrior must confront battle, yes, but the weapons need not be guns, nor the thorns of roses.

The late spiritual teacher Joanna Macy reminded us that true warriors can fight with compassion and wisdom. If we could transform the way we approach conflict—if we chose empathy over aggression—perhaps we might finally give peace a chance.

I painted this piece as a quiet reminder to myself of that truth.

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