Maps

In times of change, it's essential to draw maps. We draw mental maps when there are new destinations, maps of the streets, but also emotional maps and maps of our desires. We dream, and when we put those dreams on a map, they become part of reality; we walk upon them. That's what my maps are about: maps that dream of prosperity, fluidity, love—maps of desires, ultimately.

Ithaca

When you set out on your journey to Ithaca
He asks that the road be long,
full of adventures, full of experiences.
Do not fear the Laestrygonians or the Cyclopes
nor to the wrathful Poseidon,
You will never find such beings on your path,
If your thinking is lofty, if you select
It is the emotion that touches your spirit and your body.
Neither the Laestrygonians nor the Cyclopes
You won't find even the savage Poseidon,
if you don't carry them within your soul,
unless your soul raises them up before you.

He asks that the road be long.
May there be many summer mornings.
when you arrive - with what pleasure and joy!
to ports never seen before.
Stop at the Phoenician emporiums
and get yourself some beautiful goods,
mother-of-pearl and coral, amber and ebony
and all sorts of sensual perfumes,
The more sensual perfumes you can find.
Visit many Egyptian cities
to learn, to learn from their wise ones.

Always keep Ithaca in your mind.
Getting there is your destiny.
But never rush the journey.
I hope it lasts for many years
and dock, old now, on the island,
enriched by all you gained along the way
without waiting for Ithaca to enrich you.

Ithaca gave you such a beautiful journey.
Without her you wouldn't have embarked on the journey.
But it has nothing left to give you.

Even if you find her poor, Ithaca has not deceived you.
So wise you have become, with so much experience,
You will now understand what the Ithacas mean.

Constantine Cavafy

Watercolor on handmade cotton paper. 15 x 15 cm

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

•