Loss and transformation

I’m sitting here tonight with my blanket and dogs, reflecting a little. The blog is an intimidating, yet intregal part of what I do. Writing and painting have a synergy I can’t quite explain, but both are at their best in my work when I balance the two.

I’m thinking of Life being strange. And stranger as I see more of my life in the rearview mirror. It’s why I have to paint. With all of the sadness, beauty, loss, love, growth, and mystery, this life too much to try to comprehend. So I pray a lot and let it all out through the brush.

This has been a year of transition, and the loss of my dad, which was a seismic shift in all of our lives. I feel his guidance and presence and love keenly. On walks, in the sunlight and breezes. In my painting. And I am so thankful for the connection that not even death can take away. I’m thankful for so many things at this moment in my life. The cool breezes with blue skies and whirls of russet leaves always make me feel the most alive- the most profoundly aware of the stunning creation around me. Loss is all around, but so is hope, beauty, and transformation.

Often when you find a painting you connect with, but don’t know why, it’s because something of the artist has seeped out onto the paper with a brush, water and pigment . Being witness to that life energy makes me feel everything so powerfully. I want to use it, share it, and be a part of all of it. New things are coming! In my art and in life there is renewal every day. Today is the time to be present, alive, and grateful. Later will take care of itself. It always does. Have Faith!

With Love and Gratitude- Gretchen