Artworks of women

If Jackson Pollock is right and every artist paints themselves, then my urge to paint portraits of women expresses deep beliefs about my art and life:

that I can't give up, that I must do my best (even when it never feels good enough), and that I must always be ready for the next challenge. You can see it in these artworks—each woman is holding onto something: a feeling, attitude or idea that’s reminding her she's stronger and braver than she believes.

My mixed media women have been described as beautiful and feisty, with tons of attitude. They've also been called inspirational, offering hope when things seem bleak and reminding viewers that they are stronger than they realize. I love their bold colours and vibrancy, the glimpses of fragility and most of all, I love how each and every one of them owns their space.

I'm beginning to think that my beliefs about art and life are changing. I no longer have the urge to keep my foot on the perfectionist pedal—instead, I'm following my own advice to be kinder to myself by simply enjoying being an artist who loves contrasts and mixed media. Who knows where that might lead me?