40” x 48” x 3/4"
Acrylic, ink, marker and conte on canvas
2021
The definition of boundless is to be unlimited; immense. Is this a word you would use to describe your life? It isn’t one I used for myself in the past, but I am trying to change that. At least, I would like to change the way I think about my potential, my goals, my dreams (which are all extensions of me as a person) and consider those to be boundless. To imagine that there is infinite possibility for my dreams to shift in any direction is freeing, even if it’s intimidating to put into practice.
The limitations we put on ourselves hold us back. We are our own worst critics, succumbing to false beliefs that were planted in our subconscious that make us feel small, incapable and scared. But false beliefs are just that - false! Our insecurities are not real, they’re just limitations we set so that we have an excuse not to push ourselves beyond our comfort zones. But guess what? It’s so exciting to step out of that comfort zone, even in a small way at first.
This painting is about the paradox of trying to live in a state of boundlessness (possibility) but constantly deferring back to the false beliefs we tell ourselves that result in confinement (limitations). The fulfilling possibilities that are available to all of us in our work, our relationships and our goals become easy to imagine if we open our minds to the potential we have. And yet, we still find ways to diminish our goals because we think we don’t deserve to dream that big.
In order to communicate the intention to live without boundaries through this painting, I created several “windows'' that represent miniature galaxies. Each one appears like a portal through the canvas and represents a vast, boundless darkness. This darkness seems foreboding and eerie; there is something terrifying about vastness and openness (especially in space!). But the vastness isn’t meant to be intimidating, amidst the darkness there is always light to be found, like the stars, the moon, the sun, the planets.
This painting is a reminder to think big, to reject the tendency we have to limit ourselves mentally or physically; to expand our minds and hearts beyond our wildest dreams, but to also remember to stay focused, to stay humble, to stay grounded. I am learning that it is possible to do both at the same time. To be able to imagine my life as boundless and full of possibility is a hopeful and exciting feeling. It’s ok to be scared of your own potential - getting what you’ve always wanted can seem scary at first because it requires you to take action and accountability. But that’s ok. Take action! Hold yourself accountable for your own life! Don’t let your imaginary limitations hold you back. Dive into those mini galaxies with an open heart and you just might surprise yourself. It’s time for a boundless mindset!
This painting is part of the Out Of this World series. You can check out Part II here, and Part III here.
More info about this product:
This painting was hand-stretched by the artist in her studio on standard stretchers. It can be hung as an exposed canvas, or framed in a floating wood frame for a more polished look. This painting comes with a hand-written artist statement and signature. If you purchase this painting you will be contacted by the artist for more information about pick-up options in downtown Hamilton, Ontario, or delivery/shipping information. Please note that the buyer is responsible for any shipping charges and/or for picking up the painting, but the artist will facilitate the process by obtaining quotes, packaging the product safely, and bringing it to a shipping centre at no extra cost. Reach out to the artist directly through the Contact page for any inquiries regarding this piece.
*This is an original painting by Tania LaCaria, there is only one in the world.