When I started the Peace Collection I felt so much warmth at the opportunity of creating spiritually serene artwork that could uplift others as well as myself. I never expected the vulnerability that I would feel and need to share, but I am finding that it is the experiences behind each piece that is finishing them.
I suffer from anxiety, and at times it feels like it takes over. Amongst creating these spiritual pieces, I have found a lot of heavy come up for me from both personal circumstances and secular.
In an attempt to find the peace intended whilst I worked, I pushed down my anxiety and chose to only focus on the Savior. About halfway through each piece I hit a wall and couldn't finish a single one. It was frustrating and not peaceful.
Then a distinct impression came that I did not expect, and it was to shift that focus back to all the anxiety I wasn't allowing. I sat with it for a minute, slightly confused, but I got to work to see where it would go. This was how "He knows" came to be.
Often in times of struggle, I imagine the Saviour with me. His comfort doesn't always look like a hug. Sometimes it looks like the Saviour is right next to me experiencing the same struggle, pain, whatever it is WITH me - but He is the perfect example of meditation, breathing, feeling His heartbeat - coping.
As humans, I believe one of our deepest desires is to be seen. Understood. Knowing the Saviour truly knows and is willing to walk through the hard by our side has been a powerful message for me. I hope this piece can enhance the healing power of the Saviour in the lives of others and provide a visual for meditation and peace.