Galveston Painting

“1/4” If my genes carry the experiences of generations long past, then what am I? Why are they a part of me, and what control do I have over them? Memories, preferences, passions, emotions, talents, corporal expressions, and fears that act on my subconscious become a part of me and part of my life experience. Perhaps all of these are gifts or perhaps they are obstacles in my life. I feel this connection when listening to stories about my ancestors; I feel the emotion of being part of a clan and not a strange alien from another world and without a home. The genes I have received such as my mother’s height, my father’s glance, and my links to the past – all come together to form new generations. To define ourselves without allowing a percentage of the genes we carry to be a consuming influence is a challenge. With constant introspection, we can modify our behavior to our liking. I created the ¼ concept during my 100 days on the island of Galveston, Texas, the city where my Grandfather Kane was born and raised. This venture took me away from my friends, my family, and from my country. I sought solace in isolation, accompanied only by two birds named Bill and Sue (honoring my grandparents). Nature proved to be my inspiration and provided a respite from my daily routine. While overlooking the bay, I could see fish jump and swim and watch seagulls and the pelicans dive into the sea in search of food. I lived sunsets of few spoken words - of absolute peace and constant rain. During my stay in Galveston, I experienced a new-found freedom. I finally felt no restraints, no longer trapped in my tiny fishbowl, my feelings changed, and I smiled anew. I am striving to be true and honest with myself. This I believe will allow the real me to blossom. Despite the freedom of larger seas, the waves of life continue to shake me, and temptations still swim and swirl around me. I now control the anxiety and the fears which loom before me so I look within myself to conquer these. I must appreciate the gifts as well as the obstacles in my life. -Ana Kane