BAINA Bathe
Volume 22.
Leanne Xiu Williams

Based on Gadigal land in Sydney, Leanne Xiu Williams, is a self-taught artist exploring still life, figures and portraits. Her artistic practise evokes tenderness, intimacy and a softness, inviting the viewer to experience these feelings. Leanne’s careful consideration to the interplay of light and shadows in her work is reminiscent of memories or dreams.

In this edition of BIANA Bathe, Leanne shares her perspective on how bathing creates a space for reconnection and reflection. She discusses how it serves as a means of unwinding from the hustle of everyday life, and the rejuvenating sensation of immersing oneself in the ocean.

"Bathing is an opportunity to take time for myself and to embrace quiet and calm amid what can otherwise be the chaotic pace of everyday life. It helps me reconnect with myself and allows me to give myself the space to reflect and slow down. It’s also a moment of self-care - active rest is so important for the creative process, and taking necessary breaks is something that I value deeply as an artist."

"I love to bathe in the evenings, to unwind and take some space for myself - it's a time of reflection and a space for solitude. I light a candle, open a window and let the breeze wash over me... it’s a moment where I can slow down before bed and unwind. I associate bathing with a reset - it’s an opportunity to wash off the stressors of the day."

"I enjoy listening to playlist when I bathe - sometimes I’ll bring a book along, but often I will take bathing as an opportunity for reflection; where I can rest my eyes and remove other distractions."

"I feel cleansed even by proximity to the ocean. Its rhythm and constancy remind me to be present despite whichever direction my mind pulls me, and its presence is centring and reassuring."

"I’m currently manifesting a greater sense of calm in my daily life - I want to approach things with a sense of equanimity and level-headedness. Especially as the year is beginning, I want to move forward with intention and respect my own boundaries. In doing so, I hope to give myself more space to let creative ideas come to fruition."