Artist's Statement
My passion to draw and paint started when I was young. My mother was the first artist I knew, who creates exquisite needlework using bright colored thread and fabric. This colorful art form is called Paj Ntaub, which means “Flower Cloth.” In my culture, Paj Ntaub is a way to construct designs and patterns for traditional wear. This technique was later transformed into a new approach commonly called “Story Cloth”. As a child, I watched my mother create these pieces and I would copy the designs, and patterns onto paper with crayons and colored pencils. The use of bright colors and bold designs have inspired how I approach my own art-making practice.
I gravitate toward vivid colors, shapes, and modern imagery. This is the type of imagery I create. My painting is perceptual; it shifts from viewer to viewer allowing personal interpretation. I like the idea of painting that could create a dialogue that can be shared from one to the next.
I begin with automatic marks on the surface using mediums like oil and acrylic paint. I feel like a wave of energy transcends from my body onto my hand, fingers, and the brushes as if I am making gestural calligraphy that reflects the movements of my arm and body.
I don’t have specific imagery in mind before the start of my painting. Material and the way I handle paint are integral in the developmental process. I go into it blindly and let the marks of the suggested image inspire me to develop it further. Working from an internal compass allows me to add or subtract elements, manifesting colors, shapes, lines, and rhythms, which often unfold in unexpected and revealing ways.
Xai S. Lor
My passion to draw and paint started when I was young. My mother was the first artist I knew, who creates exquisite needlework using bright colored thread and fabric. This colorful art form is called Paj Ntaub, which means “Flower Cloth.” In my culture, Paj Ntaub is a way to construct designs and patterns for traditional wear. This technique was later transformed into a new approach commonly called “Story Cloth”. As a child, I watched my mother create these pieces and I would copy the designs, and patterns onto paper with crayons and colored pencils. The use of bright colors and bold designs have inspired how I approach my own art-making practice.
I gravitate toward vivid colors, shapes, and modern imagery. This is the type of imagery I create. My painting is perceptual; it shifts from viewer to viewer allowing personal interpretation. I like the idea of painting that could create a dialogue that can be shared from one to the next.
I begin with automatic marks on the surface using mediums like oil and acrylic paint. I feel like a wave of energy transcends from my body onto my hand, fingers, and the brushes as if I am making gestural calligraphy that reflects the movements of my arm and body.
I don’t have specific imagery in mind before the start of my painting. Material and the way I handle paint are integral in the developmental process. I go into it blindly and let the marks of the suggested image inspire me to develop it further. Working from an internal compass allows me to add or subtract elements, manifesting colors, shapes, lines, and rhythms, which often unfold in unexpected and revealing ways.
Xai S. Lor
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