SIZE:
48”W x 36”H x 1.5”D

DETAILS:
Original acrylic painting on gallery wrapped canvas
Signed by the Artist on the front
Certificate of Authenticity provided

ABOUT THIS WORK:

About a year ago, I came across these words from Rumi - “Be a lamp, or a lifeboat, or a ladder…”. In this painting, the gnome is stopping in his shed to consider which of these three tools he shall set out with on his day. As I’ve been painting this work, I’ve been talking with my son how each of these symbols and mindsets embodies the kindness and compassion we can share with others throughout our day and our lives.

As I look at my own family, I see the roles we each take on, how we become one or more of these tools for one another: a lamp - a source of light, truth and optimism; a lifeboat - a feeling of safety, protection and comfort; a ladder - an aid to growth, learning and development. I see how these roles shift daily, and extend beyond our family into our community.

As I was working on the more detailed meticulous elements of this painting, I noticed some of my past perfectionistic tendencies creeping in. It occurred to me then, that kindness and compassion can point externally but also internally as well; that I can become my own lamp, lifeboat and ladder. Which of these tools might I reach for, to arm myself with each day, to exhibit kindness and compassion towards others, but also towards myself? That shift in mindset opened me up to continue forward with feelings of calm, safety and joy.

"Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible." Our shed will always be equipped with the tools we need. To help others, and to help ourselves.

To see the process and read the full story behind this work visit ART LETTERS

SHIPPING:
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To request additional photos or a video of this work, please email mione@mioneplant.com