SOMETHING IS BURNING

My creations often mirror what I’m currently experiencing in life. Through colours and forms, I process and reflect, capturing emotions and moments as they unfold. It’s like holding a mirror to that phase of my journey. That’s why I called my latest mini-series of abstract paintings SOMETHING IS BURNING.

When I paint, I usually sit down and let it flow, drawing from recent inspirations or simply letting the process guide me. These latest pieces radiate intensity—fire and blood, heat and raw energy. They feel like something is beautifully burning. When I look at them, I don’t feel sadness. Instead, I feel their fierce energy and power.

Right now, a few aspects of my life feel like they’re burning. I’m on alert, mindful of safety and self-preservation. At first, this brought anxiety and tension, gripping my entire body. But gradually, I’m learning to relax and accept things as they are. Recently, I’ve heard heartbreaking stories—people battling cancer, my own vulnerability surfacing, and being surrounded by stressed individuals whose unkindness sometimes adds to the pain.

Yet, this fire doesn’t feel entirely destructive. Fire is a force of nature, both consuming and cleansing. It destroys, yes, but it also clears space for renewal and growth. Something burns down, and in its place, something new can emerge—slowly, steadily. For me, this is about surrendering, embracing what is, and finding a way to transform it into something meaningful. I am still learning, still drawing on the wisdom of these moments to create a better next chapter.

And through it all, my paintings stand as a testament to this fire—a reminder that even in destruction, there is beauty, strength, and the promise of renewal.
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A quote I found about the meaning of the Burning Man ritual goes like this:
”We pour our energy into the Man and then let go. This simple act of releasing one’s art by fire reminds us of the immediacy and the fleeting nature of existence. We release our ownership over the Man, over any art that we liberate by fire, and give it to the community.”

To see the entire series: https://www.colouresko.com/gallery

Marie Janine MurmannComment