seeing only with the inner eye
When I paint I forget myself
and so my works derive from stillness.
Once an old master said that the true line is dictated by the spirit and not by the brush; in this way painting becomes a form of meditation, a prayer to celebrate the mystery of life.
Stillness Speaks 76x56cm
acrylic and ink on paper
When I paint I work very fast without pauses and can make quite a lot of pieces in a short period of time.
However when that inspiring moment arrives I never know, until I find myself suddenly fully absorbed by the act of painting and yet completely aware of every movement.
Pathless Land 76x56cm
acrylic and ink on paper
This is how my ‘one breath’ paintings come alive, just like a bat who flies through the night sky, seeing only with the inner eye.
The next day I humbly enter the studio, surprised like a child I see all the works lying down on the floor, knowing I have been heaven blessed!
Painting is like a flower blossoming in my heart.
– Berry Mank
Source: private correspondence and Berry’s website.
Images © copyright Berry Mank
the awakened eye 