YEAR OF THE RABBIT
I drew this design in 1985 [year of the wooden Ox] for a friend who was born in the year of the Rabbit. I was born in the year of the Ox and although I started a corresponding design to the one on the left, I never finished it.
In Chinese astrology, the Ox is the 2nd sign in the 12 year cycle and the Rabbit is the 4th. There is – apparently – compatibility between these positions and a supportive relationship exists in which they assist each other. Considering this connection, it was interesting for me to note that much of the formative work on the Rabbit painting was carried out in 1997 – the year of the fire Ox. The painting itself was completed in 1999 – year of the earth Rabbit.
If we back pedal, 1987 was a pivotal year for me. It was a year of new beginnings during which I began to immerse myself more fully into my art – the year of the fire Rabbit. It led directly into 1988, and the first main period of work which lasted 12 years and effectively concluded with the Rabbit painting in the year of the earth Rabbit.
In the context of this page, and the 2nd and 4th relationship, the work comparable to Rabbit is The Place which was completed in 2021 – year of the metal Ox.
It seems auspicious, perhaps coincidental, that in 2023 – year of the water Rabbit – I have come to conclude another journey in publishing this website.
DAVID Morris | Art 