The Story

Through moments of growth, the pulling and stretching, and the growing pains we endure, there is a rich beauty on display that we sometimes overlook. If we pause and take a moment to observe the fruits we are producing and the budding newness around us, we can be in awe of our journey from where we started. This collection captures these moments of discovering beauty through growth, showcased in twelve different paintings.

Painting One

"The Fig Tree"

Embracing Growth and Shedding Shame.

In the garden, when shame first entered our lives, we used fig leaves to hide ourselves. Later, when Jesus cursed the fig tree, He cursed every lie that compels us to hide our true selves.

We do not have to remain stuck in the shadows of shame and guilt. Just as the fig tree sheds its leaves, we too can shed the lies and burdens that prevent us from blossoming.

Painting Two

"Blossoming Beyond Borders"

Where you’re planted determines how far you’ll grow.

Where we are planted is but the beginning of our journey, not the destination.

In the delicate balance between soil and sky, between roots and reach, lies the essence of our own potential. Like the strawberries that stretch ever onwards, and the flowers that bloom despite adversity, we too possess an innate capacity to transcend our circumstances and embrace the boundless horizon of possibility.

Let this painting serve as a gentle reminder—a whispered promise—that regardless of where you find yourself planted in life, the depth of your roots and the expanse of your dreams are limited only by the boundaries you dare to imagine.

So let us heed the silent call of the strawberries and the resplendent blooms, and dare to embrace the fertile soil of our souls. For it is there, amidst the fertile landscape of our dreams, that we shall find the courage to bloom, to grow, and to flourish beyond measure.

Painting Three

"Harmony in Abundance"

The beauty of knowing when enough is enough.

With the soft glow of dawn, a serene illustration unfolds—a delicate dance between peonies and lemons, each imbued with the quiet wisdom of knowing when enough is truly enough.

At the heart of the painting, lush peonies bloom with an ethereal grace, their petals unfurling in a symphony of rosy hues. Each blossom, a testament to the beauty that emerges when one embraces the rhythm of life's gentle rhythm. Their fragrant whispers speak of a quiet contentment, of finding fulfillment in the simple act of being.

Nestled amidst the blossoms, clusters of lemons hang heavy upon their boughs, their golden orbs a beacon of resilience and patience. For three long years, they bask in the sunlight, their fruit deemed unusable until maturity graces their branches. And yet, in their steadfast waiting, they teach us a profound lesson—that growth, like the sweet nectar within, is worth the patience it demands.

Here, amidst this tapestry of botanical splendor, lies a profound truth—a whispered secret that resonates with the very core of our being. For within the delicate balance of peonies and lemons lies the beauty of knowing when to pause, when to savor the sweetness of the present moment.

In a world that often begs for more, that measures success by the weight of possessions and the frenzy of activity, let us heed the gentle wisdom of this painting. Let us embrace the quiet joy of knowing when we have enough, when we are enough—just as we are.

Painting Four

"The Peaches of Purpose"

In the life of a peach tree, half of its blooms must be pruned to ensure that the remaining peaches grow to be juicier and more flavorful. This natural process mirrors the essential, albeit challenging, act of releasing what no longer serves us in order to cultivate a richer, more fulfilling life.

There is a sweetness and joy that can emerge from letting go. By cutting away the excess, we make room for the best parts of ourselves to flourish. The open peaches reveal their vibrant, juicy interiors, representing the inner peace and satisfaction that come from making difficult yet necessary decisions.

Painting Five

"Your Spirit is Water to My Soul"

This painting of a bouquet featuring blueberries beautifully symbolizes the importance of nurturing ourselves for optimal growth. In the first year of a blueberry bush's life, the most crucial factor for its health and development is how often it is watered. This mirrors our own need for consistent self-care and nurturing to thrive and reach our full potential.

The blueberries in your painting represent the fruits of our efforts, the visible results of the care and attention we give ourselves. Just as a blueberry bush needs regular watering to grow strong and produce abundant fruit, we too must prioritize our well-being and nurture ourselves regularly.

How can we make sure our spirits are being watered by our Creator?

Painting Six

"The Hydrangea Bloom"

Your colors reveal the love you have for yourself.

This painting of hydrangeas—each petal in shades of blue, purple, white, and pink—captures the essence of self-care and personal growth. The vibrant hues represent the diverse ways we can nurture ourselves and the beautiful results of those efforts.

Hydrangeas are known for their ability to change colors based on the soil they are grown in, symbolizing how the care and environment we provide for ourselves can profoundly impact our well-being and personal growth. Just as these flowers transform in response to the nutrients and water they receive, so do we flourish when we invest time and energy into our self-care.

The butterfly symbolizes that when we take care of ourselves from our deepest being, we can then give our very best to those around us. We can’t pour into people what we don’t have.

In essence, "The Hydrangea Bloom" serves as a gentle reminder that the way we 'water' ourselves—through self-care, love, and personal growth—determines how brightly we shine in the world. It invites viewers to reflect on their own self-care practices and inspires them to cultivate a life full of vibrant, blooming colors.

Painting Seven

"Embracing Patience and Growth"

This painting of bunches of grapes hanging on the vine is a powerful symbol of patience, growth, and the natural journey of becoming. Just as grapes become richer and more flavorful the longer they remain on the vine, so too do we grow deeper and more vibrant as we take the time to truly develop.

In our fast-paced world, it's easy to feel the pressure to rush, to achieve, to pick the fruit of our labor before it's ready. But true growth, like the ripening of grapes, requires time. It demands that we be patient, allowing ourselves the space to fully develop into who we are meant to be.

Resist the urge to hurry, to trust the process, and to understand that the most beautiful and meaningful growth happens in its own time.

Painting Eight

"Resilient Beauty"

Embracing Wholeness Through Brokenness.

This painting of blue and white delphiniums in a blue and white porcelain vase, which has been broken but mended with gold, is about resilience, healing, and the beauty that emerges from our brokenness.

The blue and white delphiniums represent lightness, grace, and an unwavering spirit. These flowers are known for their tall, elegant stalks and their striking colors, symbolizing the strength and beauty that can arise from within, even amidst adversity.

The blue and white porcelain vase, once broken but now meticulously repaired with gold, draws inspiration from the Japanese art of Kintsugi. This technique involves repairing broken pottery with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, highlighting the cracks and treating them as part of the object's history rather than something to disguise. The vase, now adorned with golden seams, symbolizes the idea that our brokenness does not diminish our value. Instead, it adds to our story and enhances our beauty.

Painting Nine

"Illuminated Blossoms"

Embracing Purity and Joy.

This painting of a white flower bouquet with vibrant pops of yellow embodies a rich symbolic meaning that celebrates purity, clarity, and the infusion of joy and optimism in our lives.

The white flowers in the bouquet symbolize purity, new beginnings, and a fresh perspective. They represent a blank canvas, the essence of starting anew with clarity and grace. White is often associated with peace and tranquility, suggesting a sense of calm and renewal.

The pops of yellow within the bouquet bring a burst of energy and joy. Yellow is the color of sunshine, happiness, and hope. It signifies the spark of enthusiasm and positivity that brightens even the purest and most tranquil moments. The yellow accents highlight the importance of finding joy and optimism in every phase of life, no matter how calm or serene it may be.

Reflect on the balance between purity and joy in your own life. It encourages you to embrace new beginnings with a sense of peace and to infuse your daily experiences with moments of happiness and optimism. Just as the yellow pops bring life and vibrancy to the white flowers, finding joy in small moments can transform and elevate our overall sense of well-being.

Painting Ten

"Flourishing Beauty"

Each element of the arrangement symbolizes different facets of growth, hope, and the transformative journey of life.

The white flowers represent purity and new beginnings. They remind us that every day is a chance to start fresh and embrace the possibilities that come with growth. They symbolize the clarity and peace that come when we let go of past burdens and allow ourselves to blossom.

The vibrant oranges symbolize vitality, enthusiasm, and the joy of life. Oranges are a testament to the energy and positivity that fuel our growth. They encourage us to savor the sweet moments and to find joy in the journey, no matter how challenging it may be.

The blue berries, nestled among the flowers and oranges, signify resilience and strength. Their deep color reflects the depth of character and wisdom we gain through our experiences. They remind us that growth often comes from overcoming adversity and that our struggles make us stronger and more vibrant.

The silver vase, holding this beautiful arrangement together, symbolizes the foundation of support and stability in our lives. It represents the people, values, and environments that nurture us and allow us to grow and flourish.

Painting Eleven

"The Olive Branch"

Celebrating Everyday Victories.

Olives, long symbolizing victory and peace, remind us that the small victories in life are just as significant as the grand ones.

In every choice we make, every challenge we overcome, we experience growth and success. The olives on the tree represent these moments—the times when we push through growing pains and emerge stronger and wiser. Each olive symbolizes a decision well-made, a fear conquered, or a step forward taken despite the odds.

Recognize and celebrate the small victories in your life. It’s easy to overlook these moments, but they are the building blocks of our journey, the markers of our progress. By acknowledging and cherishing these small wins, we honor our growth and resilience.

Painting Twelve

"Radiance of the Rose"

Finding Light Through Growth.

This close-up painting of a rose, with light beautifully reflecting through its petals, captures the delicate balance between struggle and growth. When a seed first begins its journey, a small, radiant light is released, symbolizing potential and hope. As we navigate through life's challenges, it’s easy to feel that our inner light has dimmed. Yet, just as the rose petals catch and reflect the light, so too can we reclaim our brightness by focusing on the beauty we bring into the world.

The rose, a timeless symbol of love and resilience, reminds us that even in the midst of struggle, we possess an inner light that can guide us through. The petals, illuminated from within, represent the strength and beauty that emerge when we persevere and embrace our journey.