Some of my paintings, depicting birds inspired by nocturnal dreams, were accepted for the dream exhibition held at the medieval Rolduc Abbey in Southeast Netherlands from June 8th to 12th, 2024.

This event was part of the 41st International Association for the Study of Dreams (asdreams.org/) Conference, which brought together dream researchers, therapists, artists, and dream enthusiasts.

Here are some fascinating facts about the abbey:

• Dream Inspired: This 900-year-old building is the largest and best-preserved abbey in the Netherlands. Interestingly, the abbey was founded based on a dream.

• Crypt: Priest Ailbertus von Antoing, who founded the abbey with his brothers, died in 1111 (according to Wikipedia). His skeleton is on display in the crypt.

• Interesting Style: The abbey church features a unique combination of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, reflecting the changes and expansions made over its long history.

These bird symbols on my paintings were inspired by numerous dreams where I’ve experienced flying myself, being a bird, or being carried by birds—experiences that have been incredibly uplifting and inspiring.

I integrate natural materials into my paintings, such as charcoal, flowers, spring water, sand, and clay. I believe this adds an extra dimension to my artworks.

 

For me, birds symbolize:

• Freedom: They can soar in the high skies, something I love to do in my dreams and while traveling. They offer a refreshing, broader perspective of the world.

• Elegance: Birds are beautiful with their wings and streamlined bodies.

• Wisdom: For example, ravens can recognize human faces. Many other birds likely do as well. Researchers experimented with wearing masks while trapping and tagging crows. They used one mask for trapping and a neutral mask otherwise. The crows learned to recognize the “face” of the trapper and taught their offspring and flock members to avoid that person. Even years later, crows scolded anyone wearing the trapping mask, showing they hadn’t forgotten. This suggests crows can recognize and remember human faces, passing this knowledge through generations.(treehugger.com)

I felt incredibly grateful to connect with so many like-minded dreamers and artists from around the world. I am now more inspired than ever to create art based on my nocturnal dreams.