SILVIA KARAMFILOVA

“THE ROAD TO CHANGE IS BECKONING” is part of the “Windows, Doors and Bridges” cycle of paintings. It is an invitation to decide to figuratively “pack our bags” and start on the road leading us to unknown realms and ultimately to change.

Looking out through the window, we find ourselves in a cozy home where we have comfort, sustenance and a feeling of security – water in a pitcher and fruits to keep us content. Pears symbolize immortality and prosperity because pear trees have a long life. In China, the pear is regarded as a symbol of comfort, however, it is also seen as a symbol of separation.

Hence, this painting calls to the one who has opened the window to the outside world to think about giving up their zone of comfort and setting out on a journey through green fields and pastures, colorful forests, crossing bridges and sailing through distant seas to look for the new in their life. The window is an architectural element with a symbolic meaning in art usually associated with intermediation between interior and exterior. It is a means of observation, inadvertent voyeurism, communication, liberation, hope, new opportunities or escapism. Even though life indoors is limited by walls, it is enough to open a window and look outside. Thus, we observe and discover the outside world, nature and unknown horizons. We strengthen our sense of belonging and community. The air and light passing through bring us hope and lift our spirit.

There is another important symbol in the painting – that of the bridge. It is an element connecting two sides or shores or two realms. They can be actual or abstract. By crossing over a bridge one overcomes an obstacle, be it concrete as a river or a gorge, or a more abstract one. Thus, it represents also transition or a voyage. It can, however, also be a place for meetings.

So…dare to leave your real or figurative lockdown and venture into the unknown. The road to change is beckoning… Perhaps the most courageous voyagers are those who have already passed beyond the road and bridge and are already sailing in the little red boat towards the horizon…Bon voyage!