Hope is a Gift

 "Hope is a gift only we can give each other." ~ Elie Wiesel

 

This was a demo painting I started a while ago. I almost always begin with a richly colored  background and loose shapes. I don't focus on any details yet. I do anticipate many changes and adjustments to come....changes that will teach me something along the way.

 If a painting is going really well, I try not to stop or stay safe because then, I'm not growing or stretching myself. If a painting is going badly, I know there will be a breakthrough around the corner if I keep at it. Art can't be made out of over-attachment or the fear of losing something too precious. The painting practice is about letting go, again and again.

"Hope is faith, holding out its hand in the dark." ~ George Isles

Mixed-media supplies used: watercolor, gouache, paint pens, feathers, sequins, mylar film, & stitch (sewing machine).

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On a very sad note: our pet, Thistle, passed away two days ago. I've been meditating on the poem below all week. I can still feel her tugging on my shirt, wanting to be picked up. Yes, I feel you little girl. And I will always love you...

"Do not stand at my grave and weep. 
 I am not there. I do not sleep. 
 I am a thousand winds that blow. 
 I am the diamond glints on snow. 
 I am the sunlight on ripened grain. 
 I am the gentle autumn rain. 
 When you awaken in the morning's hush,  
I am the swift uplifting rush 
 Of quiet birds in circled flight. 
I am the soft stars that shine at night. 
 Do not stand at my grave and cry; 
 I am not there. I did not die." 

~ Mary E. Frye