What is your “Why”?

Someone asked me recently, “What is your ‘why’?” Why do I paint what I paint? What is it all about?

As I thought about it, the why became clear. Most of my work is based on nature - the natural world: animals, the woods where I hike, the beach…These are the places I feel safe and peaceful. This is where I find joy and serenity.

The work I do is my interpretation of those places. I try to take what I see, add what I feel, and express that through my artwork. I want the viewer to be able to experience some of the peace and serenity I feel in those spaces, and the joy I feel in creating from the inspiration they supply.

Then I started thinking about my “Why” in other areas of my life? What is it all about? What is my focus? Where do I put my energy? At this stage and age, it’s all about the people in my life. My husband, my children, grandchildren, extended family and friends. I’m blessed to have relationships that are important to me, relationships that have to be tended and cared for. Relationships that feed my soul.

My people, my art, and my natural surroundings are the things that drive me forward and give me purpose day to day. Take a moment to think about your “Why”. Where do those thoughts take you?