A special note from director Julia Haw:

"Hi all!! Firstly, I must extend my sincerest and deepest thanks to all of our incredible community here in town. They turned out for the second-only exhibition titled FEAST at The River Gallery. Over 300 folks came and it was absolutely thrilling to witness the excitement for contemporary art here in town. Something tells me we're thirsty for it. 🙂

I wanted to share my newest painting titled Spirit House. In this large-scale oil painting, I feature a traditional Khmer spirit house floating through an inky black galaxy studded with Swarovski crystals.

At the time I started this piece in 2023, there happened to be a green comet (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS is the formal name, but the nickname comes from its verdant glowing color), flying through the universe, so I depicted this natural phenomenon hurdling behind the house.

Julia Haw (b. 1982)
Spirit House, 2023-2024
Oil and Swarovski Crystals on Canvas
120x170cm

2023 was a difficult year for me. Without going into particulars, what I experienced was unsettling at best, but it propelled me through an insane spiritual awakening. During that time, what held me together was prayer -- each night, I'd sit before my Apsara altar and pray to her and each of my grandmothers while gazing up at the stars over Siem Reap. (see pictures of both grandmothers on their wedding days below) While both of these woman have passed away, I called on them for their strength to get me through some dark nights.

In Cambodia, nearly every business and house has a small spirit house placed in front. Khmer families pay homage to ancestors and spirits in these intricate households by placing incense, fresh fruit, and gifts on the altar each day. In paying respects, the spirit house is said to provide a home for any spirits and to specifically keep them from entering into any home or business. Essentially the house serves as a miniature home to ghosts, whether from the deceased relatives or floating around the area.

I wondered what I should be doing in this floating vehicle, and I remembered that growing up, every day my dad would sweep the kitchen floor without fail. Yes.... he would grumble and gripe sometimes through the act, but years later I realized how beautiful small acts like this truly are.

Sweeping the floor is no different than creating a beautiful masterpiece. When done with intention (especially from a Buddhist lens), it provides the same sense of living with servitude.

Thank you for allowing me to share this very special piece close to my heart. It is available for sale. Please inquire if you're interested. x Julia"

Price Upon Request