Coterie: Cultivating Deep & Authentic Relationships

One of my newest works is titled Coterie and tells a story of relationships with color, line, and movement. I showed this piece for the first time publicly last weekend at Artfest Midwest in Des Moines, IA.

The relationships that were on my mind and in my heart as I created this piece are made up of people who have walked with me for decades. They have seen me through all the stages of life, the good, the bad, the ugly, the beautiful. These relationships are not perfect, but they have been forged over years, hundreds of conversations, and time spent together traversing our authentic, real lives.

I heard someone say recently that every painting is a self-portrait, an authentic reflection of the artist at this particular point in time. Others say a painting is a mirror to our soul. Of course, one painting can’t capture the depth, intimacy, or complexity of our human relationships, but it can speak towards deep community experiences. It can reflect the vibrant energy of the connections. It can inspire us to spend time and resources cultivating authentic relationships.

This painting came to me in glimpses over about a year and a half time period. From the initial pencil line sketch, to pouring out the lines and finally the multiple layers of translucent acrylic paintings. 

I hope it inspires you on your journey to cultivate deep and authentic relationships.