"Thought-Forms in Gold"

acrylic and handmade paper on canvas

24" X 18"

This is one of several new paintings that I've recently completed. This work is inspired by my practice of pranayama and meditation. I have always been drawn to Zen Buddhist ideas and philosophy. The idea of placing our thoughts into "thought-form" shapes and, in this image, rectangular boxes, that are morphing in and out of sight. We do not have to hold on to any of our thoughts. Instead we can acknowledge them and let them go with each inhalation and exhalation. I find meditation to always bring me back to center in a direct and clear way. 

"Autumn Eggs and Nest"

acrylic and handmade paper on canvas

20" X 24 1/2"

current exhibition

"In The Bamboo Grove" (Wood element)

acrylic and handmade paper on canvas

24" x 24"

"Undulating Ocean" (Water element)

acrylic on canvas, handmade paper, and leaves

24" x 24"

These two paintings are from my current exhibition, "Essence of the Elements: Homage to Nature and Healers", at Himmelfarb Gallery of Maryland University of Integrative Health in Laurel, MD. This shows runs until September 19, 2015.

Here is a lovely article from The Baltimore Sun that was written on this exhibition: http://www.baltimoresun.com/news/maryland/howard/laurel/ph-ho-lt-baer-exhibit-0806-20150917-story.html

barred owl with eggs in nest

In June I completed a commissioned painting of a barred owl. I was thrilled to work on this project as the nest and egg motif are subjects that I've explored in previous artwork. I am currently accepting commissions. If interested my contact info: jannonbaer@gmail.com   

new mixed media paintings

 "Gold Coin"

acrylic and handmade paper on canvas

8 3/4" x 8 1/4"

 "Singing Bowl"

acrylic and handmade paper on canvas

8 3/4" x 8 1/4"

 "A Soft Letting Go"

acrylic and handmade paper on canvas

9" x 9"

"Golden Sun"

acrylic and fabric on canvas

"9 x 9 1/2"

 "Desert Landscape"

acrylic and fabric on canvas

9 1/2" x 8 3/4"

recent commission

      

       This is a recent commissioned painting for my friend, Lauren, to go in her office space at a wellness center. The painting is 24" by 24" and is entitled "Enso". It is inspired by the element of water. This is similar to the smaller 13" X 13" version of the "water element" painting that I created for a "Five-Element Series". This original series was inspired by the five elements: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water of Five-Element Acupuncture. 

       I am drawn to the "essence", "spirit", and qualities of the specific acupuncture points. In the Five-element acupuncture tradition, water is associated with the season of winter. The color associated with water is blue. The organs associated with the element water are the bladder and kidneys. When we have an abundant reserve of the water element we have strength, confidence, and will power. When we have a lack of reserve of water element within us we tend experience more fear rather than courage. 

      Water and the season of winter brings our energy inward to practices of meditation, stillness, and quietude. It is the most "yin" of all the elements. This storing of our energy throughout the winter months allows us to emerge with productive energy in the coming Spring. 

       In the Zen Buddhist tradition, the word "enso" means circle. It represents strength, elegance, the universe, and enlightenment. Traditionallly, an enso is created in Japanese calligraphy paintings using ink and a brush. It is both a disciplined and meditative practice.

       For "Enso", I gathered organic materials from nature such as: dried pine needles and sticks. I combined them with acrylic and iridescent paints. The sticks resemble a raft floating on calm waters.  

       I am looking forward to the opportunity to research further into the characteristics of the five elements in acupuncture as they have inspired me so in my artwork. (image credit: photo by Lauren Going)

painting the elements

 "In the Unknown", water element

acrylic and twigs on canvas

13" x 13"

"Summer Temple", fire element

acrylic, leaves, and sticks on canvas

13" x 13"

      This Spring I have been inspired to revisit the theme of seasonal cycles and the five elements. These are two paintings from an earlier series of paintings that I created that are inspired by the Five Element acupuncture and the qualities and characteristics of each element: wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.....more images to be posted soon.