Peace

Oil on board, 18x12, Oak floater frame
 
 
We all come into this world with different hearts and eyes and when I was very young, I was the kid that “was in my own world” daydreaming and making up detailed, beautiful stories through imagery and color.
 
As I got older, I became very aware of my responsibilities with homework and chores.
 
I was the good kid.
 
A rule follower.
 
And it served me very well.
 
So many versions of myself: daughter, sister, student, employee, spouse, mother, friend, coach.
 
Life can be fast and furious.
 
A giant check list of to-dos.
 
But I kept an important part of me on hold.
 
I had an internal recording that played in my head reminding me that I didn’t have what it takes to be a painter.  It’s just what other people do. My “artist” talent was making flower arrangements and home decorating.
 
But that deep burning in the pit of my stomach got louder as I got older.
 
So, I listened.
 
I stepped WAY outside of my comfort zone.  
 
I hung up my “survival suit”.  It was the armor that kept me safe.
 
If not now, then when?
 
“So I found peace with 
Who I am now
It’s the only me I’ll ever
Be, I’ve found”
 
So here I am.
 
So many times, while painting for this show, I felt so raw and vulnerable.  
 
 
Will people understand my artist process?
 
Will they like my paintings?
 
And then I realized, that its perfectly ok if my art doesn’t resonate with everyone.
 
It’s been healing medicine for me, and I’m just happy to share it.
 
Life is hard AND beautiful.
 
And I have found that facing my fears only leads me to freedom.  
 
“I found peace with who I am now”
 
 
Music reference: Peace, Ben Rector
Photo credit: @krista_c_photography