This assignment explores my creative challenges and reflections. My process and practice are developing. I know how I want to represent my inner emotions and emerging ideas by using circular or elliptical shapes to present my work (as a characteristic).

But why?

Here's why, after much reflection and self-analysis, these statements help me understand my progress;

For years I looked through aircraft windows whilst travelling, and through these circular portals, the world unfolded. As you soar above, the curvature of the earth embraces your view, unveiling many breathtaking spectacles. The window becomes a ring, offering glimpses of cities, oceans, and landscapes that loop and cycle below. You can literally see time passing by. The window acts as a globe of observation, enabling you to witness the dance of light and shadows across the landscape. The circular lens can and will always seem normal and familiar to me.  

For this part of the course, can cropping paintings and circular redactions in photographs evoke landscapes? Yes, I believe that by focusing on the textures and depth of the paint, these digital crops and honed-in images can. However, I have submitted similar 'Digital Crops' in my previous assignment, but these pieces produce a 'painted landscape' because they are viewed/photographed from a shallow angle.

Am I in the midst of an important turning point in my course/practice/process?

I am beginning to find different techniques, formats, and materials to find the best way to convey my artistic vision.

Yes, because using circular or elliptical shapes to present my work can be a characteristic enhanced by using;

• Clay for the bases to add sculptural elements.

• Encaustic techniques in conjunction with mixed media, for example, fabric or paint.

• Photographic filtered redaction.

• The concept of a hybrid 'object'.

Overall, this assignment prompts me to express my thoughts while tackling the challenge of representing inner and emerging creativity.

I want to delve deeper into the tondo within many contexts, including circular space in motion, and the realm where the possibilities are infinite. The circular symbol of the Ouroboros (snake eating its own tail), representing eternal renewal, resonates with me as I witnessed the ever-changing vistas. The delicate balance of yin and yang, mandalas of culture and tradition, tunnels, eyelets, planets and many more.

Most of all, I am delighted that I can spend my 'coin of exploration'. The circle or window becomes my currency.