My intent for this painting, titled Lumina, was to visualize the mental state achieved through meditation. In my youth, I experimented with formal meditative techniques to cultivate presence and mindfulness, but these days the act of painting itself has become my meditation. Building on that idea, I designed the artwork based on both personal experience and the history and legend surrounding the practice.

The structure of the painting relies on symmetry and geometry to convey a sense of stability, calm, and tranquility. Nothing embodies the concept of meditation better than the classic lotus position, so posing the featured woman Lumina that way was a clear choice. The lotus position also creates a strong triangular shape within the composition, directing the viewer’s eye toward the focal point: Lumina’s contemplative face.

I chose a 1960s hippie vibe for the overall look, a period long associated with meditation in popular culture. To suggest a state of deep mental clarity, I softened the background as though it were dissolving around Lumina, while keeping her sharply defined with the highest level of contrast. I positioned the sun just above Lumina's head to imply enlightenment and to generate a radiant rim light, creating additional separation between her and the surrounding world. I devoted the most painting time to Lumina's face, striving to express the idea of inner focus emanating outward. Hopefully, I succeeded.