Timeline II

     As a foreign English Teacher, Hopkins quickly discovered that preschool teaching was tapping into his creative abilities as an artist. He also discovered an intuitive ability for communicating with children. Over time, Hopkins began to develop a personal style of "creative playfulness" in his teaching approach that combined elements of creativity with the natural sense of play that children use in their learning development.

   This had a profound influence on Hopkins, as he himself was adapting to a new life and culture. Indeed, the newness of his surroundings resonated not only with his artistic sensibilities, but also his romantic reasons for coming to China. For Hopkins, this "creative rebirth" felt emotionally receptive in a preschool environment, and, all the more so, by a "virtue-based" approach to education that was spiritually conducive for both teachers and children. 

   Among the healthy side-effects of Hopkins's "creative playfulness", was the creation of original chants and finger plays which he hopes to publish in a book form for teaching preschool English in China.

  In the Spring of 2006, Hopkins and his wife bought a new apartment in Dong Yi Shi Qu, not far from his work. It provided Hopkins with a suitable studio space, and a roof-top patio for a potted garden and artificial mountain. Hopkins dedicated much time in designing the patio layout for potted plants, and furnishing plants that could withstand the harsh north wind.

   As Hopkins was immersing himself in a new life and culture, his artwork was likewise simmering in the studio by way of his sketchbooks, artworks in progress, and wall-installation ideas. The "lived" experiences of his cultural interactions were slowly absorbing into his work. This integration between life and art also extended into his living environment.

   In designing their home's interior, Hopkins and his wife created a "garden theme" that symbolized their marriage between east and west, traditional and modern, and highlighted by generous windows and spacious views.

   Hopkins is captivated by Beijing's cultural legacy and it's many scenic spots. With Beijing having the worlds five largest Heritage Sites, Hopkins is particularly fond of the Temple of Heaven, a 15th century structure built completely of dove-tailed wood, without any nails. (Hopkins and his wife were formerly engaged at the Circular Mount Altar in 2005.)

   Hopkins is also enamored with Beijing's trees — especially it's willows, aspens and poplars that characteristically shade the city's streets and many public parks. Hopkins has a special affinity for poplar trees — his choice of wood for making his Circadian Loops.

   Ultimately, Hopkins regards Beijing as a great international city with many things to discover: from its traditional hutongs to it's modern architecture, and, most importantly, it's welcoming spirit towards foreigners.