Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Constant Evolution results in "Relearning to Fly"


This is the second time I've painted over the the original canvas. Well parts of it anyway.

You can see the two previous images here.

The only thing that has remained are the wings.

The original title was "This is My Life". There was a shadowy figure outside looking in the room. The toad represented my ex. The dying tadpoles were my kids. It was a dark view of my life. The next view was even darker. It looks like chaos had taken over my life and I really didn't have direction.

I am rather happy with this image. I do feel I am finally starting a new chapter in my life. The image is brighter and gives me a feeling of hope. I know there are more challenges in front of me before I take flight but I now see them as opportunities and not roadblocks. Hugs to you all.



19 comments:

JudyMackeyart said...

Sheila - I like the new title "relearning to fly"...it ain't over till it's over...life's like that too isn't it? You just have to keep adding on more paint till you feel like it's brighter, lighter and right. : )
Gambare!!
Judy

artbykarieann said...

good for you, sounds as though you have turned a corner Sheila, I can't imagine you having a dark time as you are always so bright, cheery and full of happiness

Elizabeth Seaver said...

I really like this version, Sheila.

Manon said...

Love that you're painting this Sheila.
I can totally relate to you.... more than you know girlfriend!

Kathleen Krucoff said...

Excellent, healing work Sheila. I love the symbolism and your commentary. From all of your writings I can tell you are a positive person and find the good in life. I'm delighted to be a witness to your continued emergence. Hugs to you.

Paintings by Irit Bourla said...

Great version but some how I want to see a frog in it.Jumping frog, which is you right? But, beautiful in and out.
Big hug my love, Irit

Gwen Bell said...

Love this latest version, Shelia. Of course, I loved the other two as well!
I feel you kept the strongest symbolism from the last version; the wings and the hands, only this time that inner energy is touching everything around you and continuing to expand. The hands are reaching toward the wings in a show of confidence that you can be trusted to be true to yourself. The lines on the bottom of the wings look like anchors to keep you grounded and strong.
Can't wait to see where you go next!

The Bull said...

Your use of color is getting stronger with each painting you do! keep up the great work!

Dana Cooper said...

Sheila, I am always surprised how art reflects the emotional life of the artist...I am so glad this piece shows growth and optimism...what could be better?

Edward Burton said...

This is wonderful, Sheila. I am also glad that this piece shows growth and optimism.

Unknown said...

Hi lady - I love this piece, the wings will lift you, the hands will steady you...so many messages here.
sending many hugs...

Sheila Estep said...

Very Beautiful and symbolic for many. It invokes a feeling of the inner self is trusting and expanding from within and the hands are saying this is "Me", this is who I am. Nice!
Thank You for sharing your journey with us.

carrie jacobson said...

Fascinating and exciting. I love that feeling of starting a new chapter. For me, it comes out in the hands in your painting - your hands, your wings, applause and prayer and capability all in one. Fascinating. xo

Tom Pohlman said...

Very cathartic Sheila! I LOVE seeing and hearing about everything that went into this painting (and is still in there)! I think it feels like you've pruned away the dead branches, and now your work and your life can really bloom and grow into something even more beautiful! Namaste~ Tho mas

Dean H. said...

Good on ya, Sheila!! For every door that you think has closed a brand new exciting door opens! Love the painting.

Carol Horzempa said...

I think you have really turned a corner in your art. You have a lot to say and and what better way than through art. I will be looking forward to the next stage of this painting.

Chuck Dilmore said...

awesome work...

and so happy
that you're in a
chapter of your choosing!

Jeff White said...

new chapter... new life... hey, you deserve it!!!

Michelle said...

Love the transformation and the title! Such a beautiful artistic evolution!