Update

I had meant to send a blog out regarding my trip to Kauai, Hawaii, which took place back in February, and here it is, the end of March. The trip was truly insightful, and the weather was outstanding during the week I was on the island. I got to paint with Saim Caglayan, a familiar face in the world of plein air painting, who captures the light and colors of the Hawaiian Islands, particularly Kauai. I had a lovely visit with him in his studio on the island, which is a paradise in itself. I have enclosed in this blog some pictures of the outcome of my painting journey in Hawaii. Could I live in Hawaii? Such a question, and very tempting, being that the temperature is just right, and the beauty in nature is abundant.

On another note, it has been difficult to rave about my painting and trips amid the ongoing war, which seems to be dragging on, without an end in sight. Being Iranian and having members of my family escape the capital city of Iran has deeply affected me. I am a person who supports world peace, not world war. Yes, I can escape myself with my canvas and the scenery around me, but amid the suffering of those affected, I feel as though the joy has diminished. I ask myself, how could politics have taken such a violent turn, and yes, there are many opinions out there regarding this question. I do not have concrete answers, and am saddened by the divide amongst all of us. I can only provide empathy, compassion, and understanding to the many different outlooks on this war. Hopefully, the world will balance itself and learn to live in a more peaceful place, without the hostility and suspicion between people. This is my wish.