Hikari No Onna (Woman of Light) - Shortlisted for the VAA500 (October 2025) ​

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In this piece, a Japanese woman raises her sword aloft - not in battle, but as a quiet act of inner illumination. She is strength made graceful, power made poetic: her raised blade a symbol of the light we each carry within, even in the shadowed corners of ourselves. 

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Pained with soft chalks on pastelmat, the work explores the subtle force of feminine courage and presence - a reminder that even a single silent gesture can carry the weight of hope, resilience and gentle rebellion. 

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I am honoured this painting was recognised by the VAA500 International, and I hope it speaks to those who see it - with a whisper of strength, a promise of light, and faith in the quiet power of spirit.

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50cm x 70cm Soft Chalk Pastels on Claire Fontaine Pastelmat