Description
Words cannot describe the energy in this large-scale painting, the freedom and hope expressed in every stroke, and artistic choice.
As an intuitive painter who paints from imagination without reference, I rarely know what I am seeking in a painting or what I can expect from the finished piece. I most often approach with energy of hope and expectation and freedom to create ~ this was one of those times ~ but soon into the painting I realized that I was receiving a clear message that would answer my doubts and clear a path for my future.
It is no surprise that the shape is round, full circle and maternal ~ that the colors are my inner fire and feminine nature ~ and the vessel light and deep and full of wonder and history. There is a personal story of a song that my grandmother sent to me soon after her passing in 1990 ~ that replayed in this painting ~ during this time of transition and confusion. It encouraged me and cast a light on my path to reinforce my professional career choice.
She feels like the coziest sweater. She light’s up when she sees you coming and sits bold and confident protecting your dreams in her heart. She’s playful like a child, forever young.
The painting was selected to an international juried call for art and awarded placement in the Arts To Hearts Project for their 101 Art Books ~ Floral Edition.
As well, I selected this piece as a limited edition print.
Sadly, during the wrapping process with a professional framer in 2024, several inches were cut off from the original painting ~ it left a clean finished backside, but I would have preferred the entire painting remain intact. This too, becomes part of the story of the painting, as it reinforces the reality of unexpected changes that come despite good intention and effort ~ changes that are always better than could be planned ~ and changes that demand faith. Additionally, a small blemish was made and patched by the professional framer, and though impossible to see on the face of the painting, this repair discounts the price 50%.
Expressive, abstract, rising, oversized and overflowing ~ all are signature Melissa Lea style. Painted with acrylic, Stabilo Woody, and other media.
Exhibited: Oct-Nov 2024. Newburyport Art Association, Members’ Juried Fall Exhibit
Limited Edition prints:
2024 & 2025: 30×20″ acrylic, maximum printed: 2
2026: Winds Of Change 14×10″ acrylic: maximum printing 10
