When Feelings Become Ideas
The most courageous act is still to think for yourself. Aloud.
Coco Chanel
So much magic and mischief have been happening in the studio! Colors are mixing, paintings are being perfected, and I can finally see everything coming together. That’s the magical part, when feelings become ideas, and ideas become realities. As for the mischief - I have sat on my palette multiple times this week.
The Genesis of "What The Wind Whispers"
The genesis for this collection was the title coming into my brain during a walk - What The Wind Whispers. At first, I painted lots of trees and leaves. Nature’s delicate details and the way the wind rustles through the leaves seemed to capture the essence of whispers perfectly. But as the series progressed, what I discovered was that these paintings are about having the courage to listen to what your soul tells you and having the confidence to respond.
Walking through the woods, listening to the birds, and feeling the breeze, I realized that nature has so many stories to tell. Each rustle of leaves, each flutter of wings, and each whisper of the wind carries a message. Sometimes, it’s a message of change, urging you to embrace new opportunities. Other times, it’s a comforting reminder of the beauty that surrounds us. This collection is my attempt to capture those fleeting moments of connection between the natural world and the human spirit.
The Characters of the Collection
In What The Wind Whispers, you’ll find a range of characters, each with their own story to tell.
The Fox in "Delicate"
One of the standout pieces is “Delicate.” This painting features a fox amidst a vibrant, colorful garden. Foxes are often seen as tricksters, but this one has a softer, sweeter side. Inspired by the idea of reputation and rising above it, this painting is a reminder to see beyond stereotypes and appreciate the true essence of those around us. Just like the lyrics from a favorite song, "My reputation's never been worse, so you must like me for me," this fox invites you to look beyond the surface.
The Sheep in "Invisible String"
Then there’s “Invisible String,” a painting that holds a special place in my heart. This sheep isn’t just any follower; it’s a leader, looking out for the flock much like a mother watches over her children. This resonates deeply with me, especially as an adoptive mother. The invisible string that connects us to our loved ones is a powerful symbol of the unseen bonds that tie us together. The vibrant colors and the serene expression of the sheep reflect the peace and joy that comes from these connections.
The Rabbit in "Mirrorball"
In “Mirrorball,” a rabbit sits amidst a dazzling array of shifting, shimmering metallic circles. Rabbits are incredibly attuned to their surroundings, always reading the room. This painting is about the parts of ourselves we share and those we keep hidden, reflecting back the many versions of ourselves. Just like a mirrorball, we can show different facets of our personality, each one as beautiful as the next. The metallic accents add a touch of whimsy and magic, reminding us of our ever-changing but always captivating nature.
The Rooster in "Style"
And let’s not forget “Style,” featuring a pair of vibrant, strutting roosters. Chickens may seem mundane, but these colorful characters know how to flaunt what they’ve got. This painting celebrates individuality and the courage to show off your true self. The roosters’ confident strut is a reminder that it’s okay to be bold and embrace your unique style. Life is too short to blend in when you were born to stand out.
Themes of Courage and Authenticity
The overarching theme of What The Wind Whispers is courage and authenticity. Each painting in the collection encourages you to listen to the whispers of your heart and have the bravery to follow them. Whether it’s the fox, the sheep, the rabbit, or the roosters, each character embodies a different aspect of this journey. They remind us that being true to ourselves is the greatest act of courage. In a world that often tries to tell us who to be, listening to our own inner whispers is a revolutionary act - so bring on the revolution!
Seeing this collection come together has been a magical experience. Each painting is a piece of my heart, a reflection of my journey, and a message to the world. So here’s to the magic and mischief, the courage and the whispers, and the beautiful journey of listening to our hearts. I can’t wait for you to experience this collection and find your own story within these vibrant, colorful, and heartfelt paintings.
