The tiger image is synonymous with success and achievement, along with protective guards that ward of evil spirits.

Ode to Amy Chua’s parenting book, Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother “The Chinese way,” in which punishingly hard work — enforced by parents — yields excellence; excellence, in turn, yields satisfaction in what Chua calls a virtuous circle. In Disney movies, the [studious kid] always has to have a breakdown and realize that life is not all about following rules and winning prizes, and then take off her clothes and run into the ocean or something like that. But that's just Disney's way of appealing to all the people who never win any prizes. Winning prizes gives you opportunities, and that's freedom — not running into the ocean.”

Concepts for parents to ponder.

12” x 12” x 1.5” India ink wash, watercolor, encaustic painting on birch panel board