Of ox and unicorn

Chinese Brush Painting
Written By Laura Beaton

A few days ago I delivered ‘Road to Golden Mountain’ to its new owner. This art is based on Alan K. Joe’s fascinating memoir ‘Of Ox and Unicorn’ available on Kindle and paperback via:  alanjoesstory@gmail.com.

The painting starts with the overall image an an apple, with his mother at the heart of Alan’s journey. It depicts Alan’s life via a series of symbols and imageries that represent the significant milestones in his life trajectory.

Read Alan’s memoir to discover the symbolism and significance of the apple, the ox, his mother, Canadian Rockies and the 1:1 ratio. Read about the lessons Alan learned while working at Lichee Gardens and then at Sick Kids Hospital. Most importantly, learn how Alan started his life as an ‘ox’ in the East and became the majestic ‘unicorn’ in the West.

Road to Golden Mountain - On Laura’s Easel and as exhibited at TIFF BellLight Box in May 2022

Alan K. Joe with painting where the title of his memoir ‘Of Ox and Unicorn’ has been added.

Laura Beaton

I am a Toronto-born, international award-winning visual fine artist whose work fuses the traditions of Sumi-e, Chinese Brush Painting, and Western mixed media. Through my art, I explore and celebrate the differences and similarities among cultures—particularly Japanese, Chinese, and North American.

Though my roots are in Scottish bagpipes and English tea, a chance encounter with a Chinese brush painting on an antique tea wagon sparked a lifelong artistic journey. That early moment ignited a creative curiosity that led me to explore what it truly means to live, and create, in a multicultural society.

My art honours centuries-old techniques while looking to the future. I transform inks, rice papers, and layered textures into serene, imaginary worlds that are contemporary, yet grounded in tradition. Each piece whispers a quiet declaration: “I Am Canadian.”

Highlights of my career include:

• Election to both the Society of Canadian Artists and the Federation of Canadian Artists

• Multiple national and international awards, including Japan

• Serving as North American President for the International Chinese Calligraphy and Ink Painting Society, representing artists from eight countries

• Exhibiting in China, with my work held in the permanent collection of the Chinese government

As a non-Asian artist mastering the philosophies and aesthetics of traditional Japanese and Chinese ink art while infusing Canadian narratives, I aim to reimagine tradition, transcend borders, and create space for new perspectives. My practice is a re-wilding of the social graces and an invitation to connect.

https://LauraBeaton.com
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Road to golden mountain