Painted 2020

Looking back at 2020, it's clear that year marked a significant shift for so many of us, including in the world of art. For me, creating became an essential way to process the unprecedented changes and challenges. This particular acrylic painting, which I've come to call 'Ascension to Light,' was born directly from those intense reflections. When I started this piece, I envisioned a journey from confinement to freedom, from darkness to illumination. You can see a person from behind, their long dark hair cascading, dressed in a blue dress – a color I chose for its calming and expansive qualities. What I truly wanted to convey was a profound sense of aspiration. Their arms are raised upwards, not in surrender, but in a gesture of reaching, almost embracing a bright, light-filled sky. The prominent circular light source isn't just a sun; for me, it's a beacon of hope, a moment of spiritual awakening or clarity amidst confusion. The inclusion of two birds gracefully flying towards that light symbolizes liberation and the enduring spirit of life, a feeling many of us craved during that time. I deliberately placed the figure within an abstract, textured opening, which I imagined as a cave or portal. This element was crucial for me, as it represents transitioning from a difficult, enclosed space into something vast, unknown, yet brimming with potential and new beginnings. It felt like stepping through a threshold into a new reality, much like the world itself was doing in 2020. What I observed in the broader 'art in 2020' landscape was a profound move towards introspection and emotionally charged works. Artists worldwide were grappling with similar themes: isolation, resilience, the power of nature, and the search for hope. This acrylic painting was my personal dialogue with those shared experiences, my contribution to a collective artistic response. I remember spending countless hours in my studio, letting the movement of the paint guide me, reflecting on the world outside. The quiet contemplation that year allowed me to delve deeper into my artistic practice and truly connect with my emotions. Creating this piece was incredibly therapeutic. It allowed me to channel my anxieties and hopes into something beautiful and meaningful. I truly believe that's the unparalleled power of art, especially during challenging times – it offers us a unique way to express and understand the inexpressible. If you're an aspiring artist, or simply someone looking for a creative outlet, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on a project that genuinely reflects your current emotions. You might be astounded by what you discover about yourself and how much it helps you navigate your own unique experiences. I'd love to hear what art you created or discovered in 2020 that truly resonated with you!