Hello everyone! I'm excited to share the inspiration behind, "The Liberation of Aelwyn," a 24x36x2 inch oil on canvas piece that's very close to my heart. As many of you know, I love to connect with you all and share my creative process, and this piece is no exception.
Inspiration and Story
The idea for this painting came to me while reading a Celtic legend about Niamh. The story sparked my imagination, and I envisioned Aelwyn, a character who, much like myself, is embarking on a journey into the unknown, throwing off societal constraints and expectations.
The Setting
The setting for "The Liberation of Aelwyn" is inspired by a plein air drawing I did in Olympic National Park, specifically the Salmon Cascades on the Sol Duc River. I remember sitting on the rocks, looking up at the cascades, with the rocky outcropping and a large western red cedar leaning out over the river. It was in this moment that Aelwyn's image began to take shape.
The Painting
- The painting depicts Aelwyn on her magical horse, ready to face the unknown.
- You can see a shoe laying on the ground, symbolizing the shedding of the past.
- Fairies are present, some pulling ribbons from her, representing the release from constraints, and another fairy leads the horse toward a cliff, signifying the uncertain path ahead.
- A small feather dragon, Aelwyn's companion, represents her dream – fantastical yet tangible.
Artist's Interpretation
To me, "The Liberation of Aelwyn" is a visual representation of embracing the unknown with courage and hope. It's about breaking free from limitations and stepping into a future that is yet to be discovered.
I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the story and inspiration behind "The Liberation of Aelwyn." I'd love to hear your thoughts and interpretations of the painting!