In Search of the Miraculous

The title of the exhibition is derived from the book In Search of the Miraculous: Fragments of an Unknown Teaching by Russian philosopher P. D. Ouspensky, published in 1949. The book recounts his encounter and subsequent association with George Gurdjieff and the esoteric teachings he received. Throughout the creation of this body of work, I have been reading and practicing the profound lessons contained within it. At times, the experience has felt truly miraculous.

One of Gurdjieff’s central teachings revolves around the alchemical process of connecting the body with higher energies. These paintings have emerged from my daily practice of meditation and self-remembering—a practice that is sometimes challenging, yet at other times rich and profound. Often, during meditation or moments of self-awareness, I perceive a pulsating energy emanating both from within and around me.

The background of each painting is built up slowly, through multiple layers of transparent oil paint, creating a surface that feels vibrant and alive. Brushstrokes are applied rhythmically—first vertically, then horizontally, and once again vertically. The process is meditative and contemplative. In contrast, the large brushstrokes on the surface arise from a very different process. I use one of the oversized brushes I craft myself, made from natural hair and attached to long broom-like handles. While these marks are made swiftly, they stem from deep stillness. Before each brushstroke, I meditate for at least 30 minutes, often longer. I wait for the energy to “arrive,” and the moment it does, I act swiftly, without thought. Ideally, the marks appear like a flash of lightning, with little interference from me.