A Nice Cup of Tea − 2018

One of the food/drink still lives that was created during this decade.

"This piece was inspired by an everyday thing that brings comfort and reassurance. It was also inspired by Durer's masterpiece 'A Great Piece of Turf' and the colour gradients evident in the work of Ed Ruscha - Christian Furr

'Scientists in China say that having 3 cups a week could increase your lifespan by about 15 months and regular tea drinkers halve the risks of heart disease and strokes. This painting reflects my interest in the beauty of the mundane and everyday pleasures. It is influenced in style too by the colourful gradients of Japanese woodblocks and in philosophy by the Japanese concept of 'Wabi Sabi' "As far back as the 15th century Tibetan tea master Murata Shukő recognised that the act of preparing and drinking tea could be a reflection of Zen principles.

Many samurai had developed an interest in the ritual of tea, both because of the physical boost - it helped them to stay awake on long watches- and the spiritual benefit of creating moments of peace and harmony in their violent lives. They lived ready to die so welcomed opportunities to appreciate beauty in a life that could be over at any moment.

Wabi implies stillness, with an air of rising above the mundane. It is an acceptance of reality, and the insight that comes with that. It allows us to realise that whatever our situation, there is beauty hiding somewhere. Wabi can describe the feeling generated by recognising the beauty found in simplicity. It is a sense of quiet contentment found away from the trappings of a materialistic world. Ultimately Wabi is a mindset that appreciates humility simplicity and frugality as a route to tranquility and contentment. The Spirit of wabi is deeply connected to the idea of accepting that our true needs are simple and of being humble and grateful for the Beauty that already exists right where we are.' - Beth Kempton