Back in January I read the most beautiful book, 'The Language of Flowers' by Vanessa Diffenbaugh. Despite the vastly different circumstances the main character Victoria, experienced in her life, I resonated with, and connected to her story. It gave me great hope. Although, most of what I felt, and the reflections I had, was dis-related subject matter, it nonetheless struck me due to its humanity.
Each type of flower has a meaning, and Victoria uses this as her way of communicating to others. It was tragic and beautiful, all at the same time. The symbolic use of flowers inspired a painting. This was the result, which I gave to my Mum for Mother's Day. I did a lot of research on what the flowers should look like, and in choosing the message I wanted to give her. I did a few sketches of the look of the flowers, and then did a trial with watercolour paint. The final piece is me painting straight onto the paper, no pre-drawing, just going for it, and hoping for no blunders! I chose to give a message comprising of both feelings and gratitude:
Dogwood - Love undiminished by adversity
Gentian - Intrinsic worth
Cosmos - Joy in love and life
Phlox - Our souls are united
Lungwort - You are my life
If you are at a place in your life where you feel a little stuck and need uplifting, read this book. If you have ever felt alone, hopeless or insecure, you will connect to the story. The message I took from it was simple, and regularly overlooked, love and joy. That's all.
Happy fairy dusting your life :)
