Painting – A Conversation with Francis.

digital painting, 54 Comments
, , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The first day of spring. I began this painting some weeks ago, hoping to paint a visual of the connection and compassion so many have to the animals and the earth.

“Start by doing what’s necessary; then do what’s possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.” – St. Francis of Assisi

This connection is so vital to us all, making small changes to live in harmony with nature. Even just taking a few moments to acknowledge its beauty in any form, nature will feel this.

“For it is in giving that we receive.” – St. Francis of Assisi

It takes hours to paint a bird and as I work, much to my amusement they seem to take on characteristics and chat!

“Is that your REAL feather colour?”

Then I chose the gold hue to symbolize it as a spiritual connection.
As the figure developed, I recognized it could possibly be the Spirit of St. Francis of Assisi. With a little research, there it was. St. Francis, known for his love of all creation and as of 1970 the patron Saint of ecology.

“For a Spirit, Francis is pretty substantial!”

I wonder about the saints as time has moved on. Do people call on them as they once did? Has the internet and social media replaced the saints? Does Saint Francis have a facebook or instagram account? Are the saints just hanging out, waiting to be called for an assignment by someone who still believes in them? It was the power of human belief that created them in the beginning, I think.

“She will make such a beautiful mother.”

While the animals call upon the Spirit of St. Francis to discuss their concerns of their homes, I did too. And I asked if he could work full time and maybe a little overtime, recruit a few buddies and speak directly to the hearts of us all, especially those with a public voice. It’s time we all live in reverence and peace. Harmony for all.

“A single sunbeam is enough to drive away many shadows.” – St. Francis of Assisi

Thank you St. Francis, dust off your robes and hey, we need all the help you can offer! We can listen to all of those inspired scientists for better ways to supply our needs. The planet is a gorgeous creation, and I am thankful for the beauty.

Happy Spring!

This painting is available as a standard size 14″x18″ Gallery Wrap Canvas, Giclee Print or Pack of Art Cards. Please see details here;

Shop Standard size Gallery Wrap Canvas, Prints & Cards.

To order Custom Sizes and Customized Cards, see details here;

Order Custom Sized Canvas, Prints & Cards.

Thank you!

    2. Haha, yes, I relate! I live in the city as well, and visit the beauty & peace of nature everyday! I love watching nature be themselves… like a rabbit eating grass, a hummingbird flying, or hawks! On a side note, rabbits are like shy friends I see every time I go into nature. When I send them a hello, they usually start to eat grass! 🙂

      Liked by 3 people

    3. It’s a great message that they don’t run from you! I have a street of large homes that I walk down, and occasionally see bunnies which is so amazing to me with skyscrapers one block over! Truly a delight. Take good care my friend!

      Liked by 2 people

    1. 😊. I just returned from a “first time ever” outdoor Tai Chi & Kigong class. What an amazing experience, not only is the planet beautiful… but the energy is such a wondrous surprise! ☮️

      Liked by 2 people

    1. Thank you Hillary 😊! I feel that way while I am painting them. It’s always becomes such a sweet experience, even if I am a bit stressed or crabby when I begin 😂😊❤️☮️

      Liked by 2 people

  9. I am entranced once again! There’s so much to engage with on a variety of levels. I’m drawn to the eyes of St. Francis and the lovely rabbit. There’s something in them that I can’t put into words. This is something I notice in all your paintings. Then there are the birds with their tangible softness. I love their delicate feathers and the way each hair speaks as part of the body. And their little feet! I can feel the pointedness of them in my hand and how light these little creatures are. It’s amazing! Thank you Liza for creating such beautiful experiences. Cathy

    Liked by 2 people

    Reply

    1. Cathy, thank you so much! The eyes are my favorite part of when the painting “becomes alive” in my perception. In my imagination, this is when it begins to “talk” and have a real essence, like the ‘windows to the soul’ of the painting. I am so delighted you engaged with it, it indeed has many little stories. Sometimes I wonder if I go overboard with detail….but then again for me, it brings them alive. Thank you so much for your wonderful, and generous comment, it inspires me to start another painting! Best to you, Liza.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much Helen, it always brings me a delight to know the experience/post of a painting was uplifting to someone! Thanks again for letting me know.

      Liked by 1 person

    2. You are very welcome!

      If you are interested, we are looking for excellent artists like you to feature in one of our anthologies. I’m the co-founder of Auroras & Blossoms, a platform dedicated to positivity and inspiration in the arts. We charge a small submission fee but offer royalties to artists selected to appear in our publications. More info on my blog.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Thank you so much Cindy! The hours spent painting this image was an experience filled with kindness and peace, and I truly enjoyed it. 😊☮️

      Like

Thoughts?

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.