Healing For Broken Hearts
The painting is for anyone who has had their heart broken or has been made to feel second-best. The image was inspired by traditional Chinese ancestor portraits. It depicts an olden-age Chinese “second wife,” or courtesan, who has no status or say in a relationship. However, she is surrounded by symbols of renewal and transformation. A phoenix rises from the peony growing out of her heart of gold. A butterfly emerges from a chrysalis. Her robe has butterflies, dragonflies, which represent removal of personal delusion, and lotuses, which express enlightenment. The painting is bordered by spring blossoms. The lady’s tears, which have fallen onto the table, have turned into jewels.
Gouache and iridescent watercolor on paper 21 1/2” x 25 1/2”