Unrestrained, Courage Flourishing: Unbridled
Much of the “Canopies” series happened during a condensed one month period, “Unbridled” included right in the mix of that time. Perhaps slightly on the manic artist side, the ideas just clicked and poured out. Looking back, I’m not sure how exactly it happened, it almost felt like I wasn’t in the room. My husband was on a work trip for a week or two of that month, and the flow of taking care of our two babies and painting had me in a trance.
“Unbridled” was the second 5 foot painting I had ever completed. Finished shortly after “Presence,” it was a subconsious expansion on a corner of that first painting- the shadows of magnolia leaves in the left side of that piece. While I share more about “Presence” here (and the “June” series that subsequently followed), this dialogue between the oak and the magnolia captured me. (Read more in those posts!)
The left edge of “Presence” included a flourishing magnolia tree nestled nearby. “Unbridled” was a continuation of that conversation, and eventually led to the “June” series of paintings.
It took me a while to realize... “Unbridled” is a self portrait. (see the resemblance? 😁). But seriously.... In an aspirational way, the magnolia from this angle reminded me of my tendency to seek, to climb, to recognize where I hope to be. As humans, we do this, and with a little unbridled courage, we allow ourselves to be who we can possibly become.
I painted it as a reminder that there is always room to grow, to try something new, and to let go. I admire the way magnolias flourish and blossom, unapologetically exploding with beauty every June.
We could use that gentle reminder of courage. Go ahead, take the leap. See where it takes you.