Bloom True.

These past weeks have felt like a major breakthrough for me artistically.  I feel as though I've connected the vibrant colour and slightly abstracted but recognizable form that I love with the imagery and symbolism of my past.  As most people know, I miss the north terribly and would return in a heartbeat if I could, but because that is not an option at this time, I feel that through this work I can honour my past while moving forward remembering that I can find peace and pleasure in my current surroundings, too.  Over the years I've been interested in studying with an artist but never found the one whose style of working applied to me but when I first read of Flora's 'Bloom True' class I knew in my heart that this was it.  And I have not in the least been disappointed.  I've learned to focus inward, to step away from the obligations that I placed on myself, to trust me...and to listen to my heart and body.  When I feel uncomfortable I need to step back and take stock of why...and know that just because something is not for me, that is not to say it is not a good thing, but just not a good thing for me at this particular time.  My pleasure arises from time spent in reflection and in nature, time with my family, time reading and, of course, a lot of time painting.  This is when I feel grounded.  I realize that somehow as a sensitive, creative person, I get caught up in everyone else's drama for some strangle, unexplicable reason and begin to be a negative Nellie instead of being a positive influence, which is really how I desperately want to live my life.  So, separating myself is necessary for me - and Flora's guidance came at such an incredible time for me, after a year of medical tests and physical challenges.  I still carry other people's unhappiness but know that the more time I spend just like this, doing what I've been doing here - trusting my faith in God, growing my faith in myself - I will be able to let that go, to allow them each to create their own joy and to grow into it.  I am blessed beyond measure. 

(NOTE:  To view these completed pieces visit http://www.flickr.com/veronica_funk.)