The theme governing these paintings deals with restricted space, cages, lack of outlet, and a vitality that refuses to live without vibrancy within those limitations. Many of these paintings are hard-edged with geometric abstraction elements, painted primarily in oil, and in most cases produced without the use of masking. Producing these works in oil is in the spirit of 修行, “shugyou”, or a form of training and spiritual penance. Acrylic would be much easier but oil requires more focus and care.