Ikigai: Vocation

Inspired by the Japanese practice “Ikigai” stemming from the belief that the sum of many small joys in the everyday results in a more fulfilling life and a reason for being. 

Through small gestures of color, this work explores how all of the little joys we find in our daily life is what makes it worth living. They are surrounded in gold leaf, representing the high worth of such joys when added together.

Working on this series has reminded me to pay more attention to the small joys in my own life, so in creating these pieces, I’ve become even more aware of all the little things that are me happy.

What do you want your impact on the world to be? Going beyond just a profession or career, a vocation is the profound sense of being connected to something greater than yourself, a compass that guides you towards making a difference in the lives of others.

It's about finding a path that aligns with your values, abilities, and resources to meet the needs of the community around you. What is the unique role you can play in creating positive change and uplift others in the world? Embrace that gift of contributing to something larger than yourself. 

Don’t underestimate the impact you can make, no matter how small it may seem. Your actions, driven by purpose and love, have the potential to create a ripple effect that can inspire others to do the same. Your vocation is a gift waiting to be shared, and the world eagerly awaits the light you'll bring.

24" x 48" Acrylic and Gold Leaf on Canvas