'Always here for you'

My father has been diagnosed with terminal cancer. For a little while I lost my mojo...but once again I am finding that art is solace for the soul.

My love to you. May you find what brings you peace.

God bless,

Asta x

How many paintings do you have to paint to create one good one?

Part of my 365 Challenge

600... that is how many photos one photographer took in order to come up with 7 absolutely brilliant ones!*

I have now painted 338 paintings. How many are good? Are any brilliant? Maybe only 2 or 3. I was hurt to see a comment on my FB art page today - 'Some real kindergarten stuff...'. I wrote a long reply justifying myself. Then I went back and deleted it. Instead I replied - "Yep, so true. Of course.'

Of course there will be more bad paintings than good paintings. Of course. But buried in amongst them will be some gems, worth celebrating. And I could talk about the journey and the showing up, the discipline. Or even about sickness, lack of resources, and squeezing painting around commitments. But instead, today, I will celebrate what I have painted well.

This painting is on its way to live in Ontario in the famous Tiny House there!

Peace be with you my friends,

Asta x


*Sean Gentry's article at petapixel.

The Grace Tree

Kneeling at the altar, waiting for communion, I asked God - "When did it become about 'so and so', instead of you?" Moments before I had been sitting with a very difficult visitor, our guest. Why on earth had he offered to come, when all he wanted to do was criticize? Usually I find our church a sanctuary of peace, but not that morning. I was on edge. I had lost my focus. I was getting angry.

As the chalice made its way to me I believe God gave me this picture. I drew it as soon as I got home and painted it a few days later. I am the tree. The roots symbolise being grounded in Christ. The trunk and branches are strong. Healthy, life giving fruit grows abundantly. The fruit bursts open and the most fragrant and delicate blossoms gently land on the people beneath. This is grace. Only through Christ could I extend grace to this difficult person.

I returned to my seat. Our guest continued to try to explain what was wrong with our theology to my daughter beside me. I sat with my eyes closed, still and focused while others received the Eucharist, and through Christ I extended grace prayerfully. The peace I felt was profound.