Painting-In Progress: Acrylic on Archival Gessobord with 2" Birch Sides,
36" x 24", Ready to hang!
It's hard to remember the battle now. I can stand and paint for more than 15 minutes at a time. The memories of how it was when I was diagnosed with a chronic illness six years ago are fading. But there are daily reminders. I notice my fingers are crooked, the joints no longer square, but I can use them to paint for hours at a time. My mind is free from the constant voices of pain. I took some moments today to let myself feel the joy of this freedom. Yes, I still have it, I still have pain and discomfort. But those voices are quieter now. And some, some never escape their pain. I call this painting The Battle. I paint for those who suffer, who have no voice. I want to speak of hope. And hope comes in many ways. Here's one: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/andrea-gardner/to-the-woman-behind-me-in_b_5082769.html?ncid=fcbklnkushpmg00000063. I am not quite finished with this painting, but I am very close.