Title:Zen Forest

Size: 6x8.5in

About This Work:
I made this series of 6x8.5in original paintings on handmade paper inspired by my experience drawing in the Hoh Rainforest in the Olympia National Forest in Washington state.

As I drew in the Hoh Rainforest surrounded by the magnificent rainforest trees dripping with multicoloured mosses, I felt wrapped in their embrace. I sat, observed, and absorbed their wonder translating what I saw to the pages of my sketchbook.

In Japanese they use the term “shinrin-yoku“ translated as “forest bathing” or absorbing the forest atmosphere. The goal of forest bathing is to live in the present moment while immersing your senses in the sights and sounds of the forest.

In German “Waldeinsamkeit” translated as “solitude of the forest” or the enlightened subline feeling that comes from being alone in the woods. The purpose of interacting with the forest is to increase well-being, revitalize and de-stress.

I went forest bathing and enjoyed every moment of solitude of the Hoh Rainforest as I focused on experiencing using all my senses this wonderful place. I made this work in direct response to my time in this rainforest.

I want you too to fall in love with the rainforest. You can purchase your favourite piece, to remind you of the magical Hoh Rainforest and to take time to be in a forest near you.

I have included a ghost tree in each image as a reminder of trees and species that disappear or become extinct. When even one tree is lost their disappearance leaves a void, a shroud of memory, an echo of what has been. I want us all to care about the health of our trees and forests everywhere in the world.

How This Work Was Made:
I made many drawings and took reference photos as I sat in the Hoh Rainforest. Once I returned to the studio, I created this series of small 6x8.5in original paintings on 100% cotton handmade Italian paper. I used liquid acrylic, dyes, and pen and ink to create the images on the handmade paper.

Each piece of paper has a smooth surface with four beautiful deckled edges. I bought the blue dye I used for the background of each image in Bali during my artist residency. It reacts to sunlight to change from a light grey violet to the rich blue you see on the finished image. I love the idea that just like climate change we’re not totally sure what the results of our actions will be.

My original drawing is packaged in a clear plastic sleeve and shipped flat in a reinforced protected envelope.

Please note: colours may appear slightly different on screen than they do on your art card.

Follow my art adventure on Instagram @cornelius.karen

Karen Cornelius holds the Copyright on all her artwork. No image may be reproduced for any reason without the consent of the artist.