8x10
Original oil painting on board
 
I’ve experienced challenges that are so deep and overwhelming that I’ve felt completely consumed. I’ve waited for the waves to pass, for time to heal but the open wounds never close, they only fester and remain fresh. I know I’m not the only one.

I’ve thought often of Frida Kahlo’s words, “At the end of the day, we can endure much more than we think we can.” Yeah, I know I’m strong, but I didn’t want to learn exactly how strong I was THIS way **waves fist at the sky**

I wanted this piece to capture the essence of human strength in the face of adversity. I painted a deep, dark background to symbolize the challenges and sorrows that life inevitably brings, while the rich colors of the iris represent the flourishing spirit that refuses to be extinguished.

Within each of us lies an inherent capacity to endure, to rise, and to blossom.

“Sometimes I feel I haven’t done much,” said the boy
“You’ve got up and carried on…” said the horse
“…which is brave and magnificent.”