CJ's profile
C. J. Schwarz - Artist Statement
www.cjschwarzart.com
From a young age, I felt a deep connection to the natural world. Inspired by my father’s encouragement, I spent endless hours outdoors—immersed in the woods, creating inks from flower petals, and crafting small clay animals. My happiest memories are from those summer days, a time of freedom, discovery, and a growing love for nature. As I grew older, this passion only deepened, leading me to explore new landscapes through hiking, biking, and camping. Experiencing the health and peace that nature provides has been a constant source of joy and inspiration.
Memories of family camping trips have always stayed with me—like standing on a Nova Scotia shoreline, gazing at the ocean with the distant sound of bagpipes filling the air. Another unforgettable experience was seeing Lake Erie in the 1970s when the EPA was being founded. The condition of the water left a lasting impression on me about the importance of caring for our environment. With impending climate change on our horizon I am even more concerned about the future we will leave for others.
Though I initially pursued a career in health and social work, earning both a Master of Social Work and a Master of Acupuncture, the draw of art never left me. I worked in the field of mental health for over 20 years. Shortly before returning to school to study acupuncture in 2001, I began to experience my own health symptoms. This lead me to question whether or not other forms of treatment could serve people and myself. I noted the connection of one’s mental health, spiritual health and physical wellbeing which interacted with each other. I became fascinated by what was considered body, mind and spirit. I noted in myself that activities outside enriched my life but also helped me feel better and at peace.
In the last few years there has been increasing interest in the benefits of being in nature. Cultures like Japan prescribe what is known as “Forest bathing” as a course of treatment. It is the act of mindful walking in nature utilizing the senses to experience its beauty. This is how I became interested in five Element Acupuncture or Traditional Acupuncture. This is the oldest form of acupuncture practiced which began 3000 yrs ago. It is based on the understanding of a cyclical flow of energy or life force, which could be described as what animates us as individuals. In traditional acupuncture there are Five Elements, Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. The five elements represent Qi or Chi as it moves through our bodies in what are channels or meridians. Qi moves through nature and our bodies. The elements work interdependently to sustain and support health. For example, Wood, corresponds with the season of springtime and birth and growth of plants and trees are abundant in springtime. The plant will reach maturity under the heat of Fire or the summer if conditions are right. When the summer is dry the plants will suffer in not reaching maturity. This is true in the body, mind and spirit as well. We become unbalanced, symptoms arise and this is where acupuncture attempts to intervene.
This connection with nature brought me back to my early longings of being in nature observing and eventually picking up a paint brush. In 2013 I returned to painting, primarily in oils, attracted to their rich, vibrant colors and the influence of the master painters I admire. Painting landscapes has brought me full circle to that childhood wonder, as I seek to capture the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.
My work has been featured in various exhibits, including the Howard County Conservancy’s Art of Stewardship shows and the HOCO Open. I’ve also participated in the juried Local Color shows for a number of years including the Meeting House juried show in 2024. My paintings are currently on display at Side Street Framing Gifts and Gallery in Severna Park, MD, and 4 Gates Wellness.
My hope is that my work invites viewers to experience a sense of familiarity, as if they’ve stood in that landscape themselves. I aim to convey the reverence I feel for nature, hoping it resonates with others who cherish our environment. Knowing that my art is enjoyed by people who share this appreciation for our world is an incredible honor.
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