The central red hearts speak to love and connection, while the surrounding mist and cooler colors introduce elements of uncertainty. The contrast between the radiant leaves and the cool forest captures a mysterious world. It feels simultaneously quiet and hopeful.

I started this painting during covid as the world experienced pain, isolation, death and confusion. I found myself safe and alone, surrounded by a lovely forest, both guilty and grateful for my situation. It was a first for many artists as we were allowed to collect unemployment insurance for the first time in history, giving us brief respite from financial worries. This painting is different for that reason alone, it came from a heart free of worry and a place of peaceful solitude as I watched and waited for the world to recover and connect with friends again. It hung on my studio wall for years and needed it to be there. Eventually, I finished the edges, stretched the canvas and it found a wonderful home with a lovely family. 

I cannot keep all my creations or I will be buried in paintings and give up the chance to keep creating. The gift is that they live a new life somewhere out there for others to enjoy.