Perspective and Embrace for the Suffering, 2021
Acrylic on canvas
36 W x 24 H x 0.5 D in
 
If you are in grief, this painting was made for you. This is a container for your sorrow and suffering.
 
Suffering is a universal part of being human, but that doesn't make it any less isolating and painful. This painting aims to remind you that you are not alone and to provide comfort in two ways.
 
The botanical petals and leaves are like an embrace, a kind and warm presence. The dominant purple sky aims to remind you of a clear night sky, when the stars are out and you cannot help but sense with awe the vastness of time and space.
 
I have found this can be helpful during times of grief or overwhelming difficult feelings.
 
This gentle, somber painting would best help those in grief in smaller, quieter spaces near a comfortable chair and blanket.
 
I painted this painting not in a personal time of grief, but after recovering from such a time, using elements I found comforting and stabilizing. The deep purple color I probably subconsciously chose from my upbringing where dark purple is used to honor and symbolize Christ' death.