My artistic journey: colour, culture, and connection
Discover the heart behind NaïveArt Therapy. Here, I share the inspirations, processes, and profound messages woven into every stroke of my work. Explore the world as I see it, translated through acrylics and gold leaf.
Translating inner worlds into colour
My artistic mission is to translate inner worlds into vibrant colour. My work speaks through two distinct visual languages: vivid, geometric portraits of women, often Afro-Caribbean, adorned with symbols of hibiscus, music, and shimmering gold; and more serene, textural landscapes featuring a solitary figure encountering the vastness of the sea, the soft glow of moonlight, or the expansive sky.
A journey across cultures
As a Dominican living in Europe for over two decades—first in the Netherlands and now in Ireland—my art is deeply influenced by this personal crossing. It’s a convergence of the Caribbean's warmth and vibrant saturation with the North's thoughtful restraint, where neither entirely dominates. Themes of women standing alone, the rhythm of music, and the beauty of Afro and dark skin, all enveloped in the richness of gold, resonate throughout my creations.
The creative flow: from idea to canvas
My artistic process begins with an idea, often sparked by the concept of Black beauty, the inherent warmth of the Caribbean, or the captivating music that runs through our veins. Whether I see a striking photograph or hear a compelling sound, I ponder how to translate that feeling and image onto the canvas. Each piece evolves from this initial spark, growing into a unique expression of my vision, infused with acrylics, gold leaf, and metallic pigments.
"Y.L.R.'s art offers a profound experience, blending vibrant culture with serene beauty. Each piece is a journey."
A visitor to NaïveArt Therapy