This painting evokes a sense of joy, melancholy and wonder. The central leaves speak to love and connection, while the surrounding mist and cooler colors introduce elements of uncertainty. The contrast between the radiant core and surrounding forest captures the duality of experience, the desire for connection in a mysterious world. I started this painting during covid as the world experienced isolation, untimely death and confusion. I found myself alone in a lovely forest. It was a first for many artists, we were allowed to collect unemployment insurance for the first time in history, giving us brief respite from financial worries. This painting is different for that reason alone, while life felt tenuous, my financial situation was for once no longer a source of anxiety. We watched, waited for answers, longed for recovery and the sound of friendly voices again. The painting hung in my studio for many years, offering hope. It has since found a wonderful home with a lovely family. 

I cannot keep my creations or I will give up the chance to keep creating, although it’s joyful when they find a new life out in the world.