Golden Flow

Golden Flow: Gourd Sculpture
7” high x 9” wide

Marine blue above the waterline, variagated gold & blue leaf with matte black bottom. Pyro engraved swimming golden koi with gold leaf and metallic paint


Koi are renowned symbols in Japanese and Chinese culture, and on the favorite list of my artistic expressions.

Koi are said to possess qualities of strength and bravery. In China, they were known to attempt swimming upstream in the yellow river, but only a few of them were able to swim past a point called the Dragon’s Gate. Legend has it that the koi who did were rewarded by turning into dragons. For this reason, koi are a symbol of determination and a strong will to succeed.

In many Asian cultures, koi are revered for their strength, perseverance, and dedication. The Dragon’s Gate Waterfall is one of my favorite.

My Artist in Residence piece is not unlike this legend, with the many voices I hear, reminding me of the evil spirits, the distancing and quarantine, and safety practices representing the waterfall. As I travel each day and do my best, I am able to navigate the swift waters of my mind, when I do my best, I reach the tranquility of the stream of living each day to the fullest, regardless of what is happening around me and in our world.

Stay tuned for an upcoming illustration of the Dragon’s Gate!