Life (and Everything That Comes With It.)

As usual, I didn't start this painting with anything too specific in mind. Obviously flowers and nature have been on the brain due to the upcoming "Natural Remedy" show, but other than that the only "goal" for this one was to be a bit more painterly with it. 

Less drawing, less stillness; more energy and life. 

I think that was well accomplished, but unexpected current events playing out nearly at the same time as I finished the painting infused it with something a bit deeper; the battle for life. 

About two weeks ago an unprecedented attack occurred. Countless lives were lost in unimaginably horrific ways which has led to even more violence that continues, if not increasing daily. 

We all have our own trials and tribulations but largely, in the United States at least, our lives are not at constant risk. Yes there are issues, some more serious than others, but most Americans don't have to fight to survive on a daily basis. We've created a fairly stable environment where life's choices are more about what to fill our time with rather than what we'll do to survive. This painting, especially after learning about the events unfolding around the world, represents the battles of life; aggression, self-preservation, cooperation, and yes, death. It's a reminder that the beauty of life often requires some kind of sacrifice, whether personal, communal or forced upon another. This is not meant as a defense of any violence in any way shape or form, but an acknowledgement of the reality of living in a conflicted world which some of us can all too easily ignore.