Sandra Gaidelė is both a psychologist and an artist, uniquely fusing her professional expertise with her creative interests. Although her main occupation centers on words and understanding the human psyche, she seeks balance and serenity through watercolor painting. This artistic pursuit provides her with a respite from the pressures of language and analysis, enabling her to express herself visually instead of verbally.
For Sandra, creating art with watercolors is an essential way to retreat from daily life. She finds comfort in the calm rhythm of painting, distancing herself from the rigors of her psychological work. The flowing, unpredictable nature of watercolor draws her in, offering a meditative experience in which control blends with acceptance of the unforeseen. This interplay between intentionality and spontaneity reflects the emotional landscapes she navigates within her therapeutic sessions.
Her experiences as a therapist deeply inform the way she approaches art. By engaging with clients in therapy, she gains a wider perspective that she weaves into her creative endeavors. The relationship between therapy and painting enriches her enjoyment of creation and teaches her the value of relinquishing control. Art and therapy, intertwined, provide her with a sense of harmony and mutual reinforcement in her life.
Sandra’s artistic identity is closely tied to her use of watercolor. She characterizes it as whimsical, emphasizing its unpredictable qualities. Through watercolor, she experiences a dance between deliberate choices and the surprising outcomes the medium delivers. This process encourages her to cherish both the artistic journey and its unexpected turns, embracing her dual identity as both psychologist and artist.
About this artwork+
This painting, titled "Night Flower" by Sandra Gaidelė, captures an intriguing scene. In the painting, vivid strokes of red, white, and blue burst outward against a deep, dark blue background that suggests night. Accents of white and lighter blue give an impression of light, perhaps moonlight, reflecting on the petals. The style is expressive and dynamic. Broad, sweeping brush strokes filled with emotion create a sense of movement, making the flower appear like it’s blossoming in the moonlight. Sandra Gaidelė uses thick paint and contrasting colors effectively to draw the viewer's eye into the center of the canvas where the intensity is greatest. This depth and the rough texture add a raw, natural feel to the work, connecting us to the theme of nature's beauty in nocturnal settings.
