Of ox and unicorn

Chinese Brush Painting
Written By Laura Beaton

A few days ago I delivered ‘Road to Golden Mountain’ to its new owner. This art is based on Alan K. Joe’s fascinating memoir ‘Of Ox and Unicorn’ available on Kindle and paperback via:  alanjoesstory@gmail.com.

The painting starts with the overall image an an apple, with his mother at the heart of Alan’s journey. It depicts Alan’s life via a series of symbols and imageries that represent the significant milestones in his life trajectory.

Read Alan’s memoir to discover the symbolism and significance of the apple, the ox, his mother, Canadian Rockies and the 1:1 ratio. Read about the lessons Alan learned while working at Lichee Gardens and then at Sick Kids Hospital. Most importantly, learn how Alan started his life as an ‘ox’ in the East and became the majestic ‘unicorn’ in the West.

Road to Golden Mountain - On Laura’s Easel and as exhibited at TIFF BellLight Box in May 2022

Alan K. Joe with painting where the title of his memoir ‘Of Ox and Unicorn’ has been added.

Laura Beaton

Laura Beaton is a Canadian visual fine artist working in Chinese Brush Painting, Sumi-e, mixed media, and Western contemporary abstraction. Her practice brings together Eastern brush traditions and expressive Western abstraction through colour, movement, atmosphere, and intuitive composition. Using earth tones, vibrant accents, organic forms, and layered gestures, she creates works that feel both grounded and expansive, inviting calm, reflection, and emotional connection.

 

Her abstract compositions often suggest natural rhythms, trees, landscapes, and structures of growth without relying on literal representation. Through a thoughtful balance of stillness and energy, soft tones and bold movement, Laura creates visual harmony across the surface. Her work reflects an ongoing interest in presence, coexistence, resilience, and the relationship between nature, culture, and personal experience.

Laura has exhibited in Canada and internationally, with work shown in galleries, museums, juried exhibitions, cultural institutions, and community arts initiatives. Her paintings are held in private, corporate, and public collections, including collections connected to Canada, China, and international patrons. In addition to her studio practice, she contributes as a speaker, juror, consultant supporting artists through mentorship, professional strategy, and community engagement.

https://LauraBeaton.com
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Road to golden mountain