Anne-Catherine Higham
Reflections on Serenity
Date installed: September, 2023
Abstract paintings
We asked Anne-Catherine if she would introduce herself and share a bit about her painting, and here is what she wrote…
A bit about me: My inner safe haven is a paint brush and a canvas. Painting is an immersion in the present moment, a time to liberate the imagination. It evokes emotions, provides aesthetic pleasure, and sparks ideas — painting may even open moments of clarity or nourish reflections on the larger context of Life.
One objective of this exhibition is to share this precious experience with you. After all, doesn’t everyone need a temporary off-ramp from this world of chaos and information overload? If you let it, perhaps a canvas will lead to serenity.
I settled in Massachusetts eight years ago, after spending the majority of my life in Europe, Asia and Canada. Being immersed in different countries, I was able to experience art from this range of cultures and perspectives. I draw on this experiential repertoire to inspire my pieces.
Paints and canvas aside, I volunteer in hospice, and I have trained as an end-of-life Companion. Walking along with those for whom the passing is in sight sharpens the focus on the present, and inspires reflection on our personal and societal priorities.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Rines Gallery and to the First Parish Church Virtual Gallery for this wonderful opportunity. It is both an honor and a pleasure to showcase my work in this space.
About the exhibit: Reflections on Serenity — ’Let it Be, Let it Go, Let it In’
Serenity is a necessary state of mind for a deep experience of life. As individuals embarked on the journey of life, a foundation of serenity allows us to build firmly on the large pillars of purpose, fulfillment, understanding, connection, love. Without serenity, these pillars turn into props.
How may we, as individuals, cultivate serenity? To illuminate our way, we propose a reflection in three circular chapters:
Let it Be — Pause
Let it Go — Release
Let it In — Embrace
This exhibit draws on the wisdom of thinkers whose contemplations explore the human experience.
Here is, then, an invitation to embark on an experience with serenity. You are encouraged to suspend time and let the art be a window into the essence of being. May you bring colors of serenity onto the canvas of your life.
First Parish Art Committee Note: Anne-Catherine’s work in this exhibit is for sale. If interested, we invite you to direct any inquiries to Larry Grob (617-817-3123 or lagrob@mac.com) for an introduction to the artist. In the meantime, you’ll find a link to her price list here.
Please note, a portion of proceeds from sales of Anne-Catherine’s work will be donated by the artist to the Pan-Mass Challenge fund for cancer research.
We hope you enjoy Anne-Catherine’s work. If you’d like, you can click below to send her a comment or question…
‘Let it Be’
Reflections on Serenity…
Pause.
Pausing and disconnecting from the rush of time and activities, we can fully embrace the present moment. Let us step away from life's constant motion and compulsion to strive, and take a moment to simply be grounded in body and mind.
Red is used here as an ardent reminder to halt, and recognize moments that truly matter.
(click images to enlarge and see full proportions) ▶︎
‘Let it Go’
Reflections on Serenity…
Release.
The liberating act of releasing attachments to the past, or any elements that no longer serve us, comes into play. We shed regrets, resentments, and expectations about the future, paving the way for a forward journey.
The deep blue shades invite tranquility and introspection into the vast ocean of our mind.
(click images to enlarge and see full proportions) ▶︎
‘Let it In’
Reflections on Serenity…
Embrace.
Embracing life's opportunities with an open heart and mind, we engage in new perspectives, relationships, and experiences that energize us. This collaboration with what is, fosters development and enables horizons to expand.
The gentle blue shades and aerial feel of this selection suggest inspiration, new beginnings and trust in what lies ahead.
(click images to enlarge and see full proportions) ▶︎
Other works…
In addition to the featured pieces that make up the core of this exhibition, we are delighted to showcase here a selection of additional works by Anne-Catherine. These pieces offer a broader perspective on her creative journey and thematic exploration.
(click images to enlarge and see full proportions) ▶︎
