Storytelling with Art, 5 Paintings, that together, Tell a Story

The way an individual finds meaning or connection with a work of art is one of the things I love most about what I do.  We all walk a different path, we've all had different experiences, and because of that, all art resonates differently to every viewer.

"Wear Something Pretty"

5x7 in oil on panel, top left

This painting represents her approach to life and style. Wear something pretty is her philosophy. It doesn't matter what she is doing, hence the wine.

Nothing makes me happier than meeting someone who finds something meaningful in one of my paintings, especially when their interpretation is truly unique to their story.

Last year I was asked by a collector to create five small paintings that reflected on different parts of her life or path in life. I was thrilled with the idea and we worked together to create works that meant something to her, in a very symbolic way.

"A Journey of Transition"

6x6 in oil on panel, bottom left

She really wanted a painting that symbolically represented her past and future. The autumn season is a symbolic reference of transitioning from one phase of life to another, the creek represents the crossing and surviving of troubled waters, the green landscape on the far side a brighter future. The bridge is weathered but sturdy.

I really appreciated her insight and thoughts behind the concept for each painting. She was very flexible in allowing me to take our conversations, and brainstorming, and run with it creatively. As a result, I created five uniquely different paintings that together told her story.

"carefully chosen I"

6x9 in oil on paper, center

This little pumpkin was her way of remembering a fond time in her life when she spent a lot of time in the Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania with her parents. Pumpkins always bring those memories back and she wanted one to be visible at all times.

This project was a joy to work on and I thoroughly enjoyed exploring subjects that are not typical for me. I'm pleased to say it was a great experience that has definitely developed some new thought patterns and stylistic experimentations on my part. Words can't express how grateful I am that she entrusted me to create these paintings for her.

"it's complicated"

7x5 in oil on panel, top right

The wishbones represent the wishes she has for her two sons. It's a complicated process navigating the role as a parent and we all want to do the best we possibly can for our children. She's always loved my wishbone paintings and wanted a way to incorporate them into her collection. The blue represents her sons, and the pink popping through is a reminder that she is always there to back them up.

The paintings are displayed in her home, hung opposite of seating, where she can always see them when she is relaxing or entertaining. She also wrote these lovely words about the project, and I am so humbled by them.

"The Love of a Painted Sky"

6x6 inch oil on panel, bottom right

A sunrise over the ocean is her happy place. The place where she finds peace and calm. The one place she can relax. Who can argue that?

While I don't openly accept commissions, I'm always happy and willing to discuss personal projects, please don't hesitate to reach out to me. This was a wonderful project to work on, and what a fresh way to incorporate art into a home that has a deeply personal meaning to her, that encourages conversation, and gives her reason to smile. Thank you lovely lady for entrusting me with these works.