This mixed media piece includes: watercolor, colored pencils, and gel pen on watercolor paper.
This self-portrait illustrates the grace and beauty of nature, inspired by words of support sent to me by a friend of several years, poet, and patron of my art. He has expressed a strong emotional attachment to the concepts of female empowerment and unique, individual beauty that build the foundation for this portrait series. He has encouraged me over the last couple of years I have been discussing this project, to stop being afraid of it, and start creating works of art that will embolden other women to explore their inner wild woman and rise above societal expectations of their appearance, value, and place in society.
“There is a covenant in creation that does not demand, but rather promises, a constant grace to mindful presences. Let this sink into your heart and make you happy. Be blest in your visions and dreams.” – Michael Lancaster
The portrait in watercolor and colored pencils further develops the beauty of the natural environment showcased in the concept pages for this self-portrait. My main focus for this piece was to capture the strength of the central figure, beauty of movement, lighting, and textures in her garments. The land that set the scene for this photo shoot was truly breathtaking and deserves equal attention to detail. I was particularly moved by the vibrantly saturated colors of storm churned waters juxtaposed against the backdrop of a vibrantly blue sky.
I collaborated with my best friend to plan and execute the photo shoot for this self-portrait. We set out the morning after a thunderstorm with photography gear and two vintage suitcases crammed full of costumes and props. The hike into the secluded portion of the property was a mile from our parking spot. After shooting in several parts of the property, we came away with a wealth of images for promoting our mutual desire to empower women in our community.
These initial concept photos were used to promote a public event where we offered women a costumed photo shoot, including professional make-up, community building exercises, an Insecurity Burning Ceremony, and a set of professional photos from their shoot. Many of the women have agreed to pose as models for future paintings in this series.
I hope to strike a balance in future works between the majesty of place and the strength and grace imbued in central figures that will highlight the unique beauty of each model.
Dryad Model: Frances Byrd
