Spanish artist Carmen Varela has spent her life immersed in the world of painting and sculpture, dedicating much of her work to the delicate beauty of peonies. Captivated by the elegance of these flowers from a young age, Varela finds their transient nature particularly inspiring.
“What draws me to the peony is its ephemeral beauty and subtlety,” she shared. “Their elegance never fades; from the moment they bloom, their heavy blossoms bow to the earth until their petals drift away with the wind, transforming into gorgeous shades of yellow and ochre.”
Recently, at the Botanical Garden of Madrid, Varela showcased her vibrant paintings of peonies in full bloom. Amid the lush surroundings, she also shared her admiration for Chinese ink paintings of peonies.
“Chinese people convey the beauty of peonies to the world through ink painting,” Varela remarked. “Unlike my own more baroque style, the blank spaces in ink painting are truly beautiful. I believe that painting serves as a window to showcase each other’s cultures.”
Through her art, Varela hopes to highlight the universal language of beauty and the connection between different artistic traditions. Her reflections underscore the power of art to transcend borders and foster mutual appreciation.
