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This
painting is part of an invitational art project,
Through Her
Eyes,
helping women
survivors of war-torn countries acquire the tools they need to rebuild their
lives and learn self-sufficiency in the face of civil strife and
uncertainty.
These ladies captured my attention and respect the moment I saw the
photograph of them. It was one of those photographs I refer to as my
"specials" - one of the ones that makes my heart leap to my throat so fast I
have to actually grab hold of it so I can keep my heart from pounding out of
my skin.
My
goal for this painting was to show how each generation learns new ways to
improve their lives. I attempted to show that by adding more color to each
generation as you move forward in the painting. So, you'll notice in the
painting that the youngest generation has the most intense colors and
(philosophically) the brightest future. Being an artist, I know how joyful
color can be. I was inspired to name the painting after a song with a
similar title.
I
believe what these women have accomplished, especially given all they have
endured, is remarkable and I greatly admire their strength and willingness
to learn in the face of all they have to conquer ~ still. I enjoyed my time
visiting with them (at the easel) while attempting to put my respect for
them on paper.
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