This is more than a painting: it’s a tribute, a celebration, and a memory woven into canvas. This 20×20 inch mixed-media artwork honors the essence of my grandmother, who passed away on July 16, 2020. Through movement, vibrant colors, and symbolic elements, the piece becomes a reflection of the life and spirit she carried with grace and joy.
Composition
At the heart of the composition stands a plus-size woman in a flowing red dress, mid-dance, her curly hair moving with her rhythm. She is not just a figure; she is a presence. The color red, her favorite, speaks of boldness, passion, and vitality. It’s the color of her laughter, the sound of her joy, and the warmth she brought into every room.
Surrounding her are elements that shaped my grandmother’s world and spirit. A Puerto Rican cuatro, our national instrument, rests nearby, symbolizing the music she loved. A red hibiscus, vibrant and full of life, anchors the composition, and sitting atop it is a coquí, representing her affection for frogs and the island she called home.
Butterflies appear in delicate collage fragments throughout the piece. Though she rarely spoke of them, perhaps uncomfortable with the idea of their transformation; she still found them beautiful. In this artwork, they symbolize quiet strength, change, and the parts of her that were always in motion, even when she stood still.
Creating this painting was an emotional journey. I recorded every stage of the process, from layering textures to placing each butterfly, letting the artwork unfold with both intention and memory. It allowed me to grieve while celebrating the life she lived so fully.
Rhythm of Her Spirit is a love letter in color and texture. It says: she lived, she danced, she loved. And now, through art, she keeps dancing still.
Dimensions:
- 20 x 20 inches
Please note:
Colors may look slightly different depending on your screen or lighting. Every monitor or device displays color differently, and human perception also plays a role.
Unless stated otherwise, frames are used for styling and photography only. This painting ships unframed.
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