“Creating is extremely private. The distance must exist once I am in the tug of war between institution and elaboration. Still, I hope my artworks can reach beyond explanation.”- Maya Hewitt

Have Absorbed in Western culture and experiences of traveling in Eastern world for years, Maya is extremely sensitive to exotic cultures. Her interpretation to extract between material and spirit, the phenomenon and emotional experience between human and universe are also rich in layers, transforming into a unique art language. 

Unique Art Language

The figures, elements, graphic arrangements and color collocation in Maya’s artworks seem simple and daily. However, it makes people feel absurd and disturbed. The human behaviors in Maya’s paintings seem to be intimate but alienated, and the vacuous eyes appear to be indifferent to all surrounding in the world, the mysterious expressions of soul, life and death, and all of these boost our desires unconsciously to interpret the hidden gems behind the symbols and hints.

However, when we look for possible explanations by the knowledge and life experiences, it’s easy to be trapped in a dilemma, worrying the over interpretation will mislead the truth and the superficial explanation only reach to the surface. The concept of distance extended related to the scenario in the real life.  We can’t realize the whole picture of an event at the very beginning very often. Nevertheless, as the time passes to calm down the minds and increase knowledge, we are able to keep a distance and see the truth. Perhaps, we seek for a balance of distance in our lifetime. We may not know the answer forever,  being frustrated and eager within the process, which is also the fascinating part of Maya’s works.

Motivation from the inner heart

Different from most artists inspired by the change of external environment, Maya’s inspiration doesn’t just come from the outside. Most of her inspiration comes from her heart. As a result, it generates the feelings of surrealism while enjoying her works. But differing from surrealistic artists who try to paint unconscious with technics consciously or look for real ego by sneaking into her mind by automatism. Details in Maya’s work origins from the most realistic life experiences. She seizees every extraordinary details and moments in life, tastes the interaction among people, and contemplates the existence of people and universe, by blurring the boundary of inner and outer.

Human mind is like a labyrinth. People may get lost in finding the exit, and fall when stumbling, or dig out the unexpected treasure to find the pure ego. The exploring is dangerous but fascinating. There are deep emotions in Maya’s works beyond the dimensions of time and space, calming down the burdens of unreasonable emotions. Maya can be defined as a deserter escaping from daily life, or a spiritual wanderer. Her works are personal, internal, and genuine. Although from the private works like these, Maya still wants to discover the universal value, and touch those astray souls, or you, who are lost.