Sunlit Gaze: A Woman, and the Courage to Bloom

This 12×12 mixed media artwork is a gentle yet powerful portrait of presence. At its center, a plus-size woman shares space with two radiant sunflowers, symbols of resilience and light. Her syrup-toned eyes invite connection, while her pink lips and flowing brown-orange hair create a harmonious warmth that feels both earthy and ethereal. But beyond her features, what truly shines is her energy: calm, unapologetic, and rooted in self-acceptance.

Process

The creative process began with layers of paper and gesso, forming a textured base that held space for what was to come. I then let acrylic inks flow freely, allowing color to move and settle organically. Over time, I built dimension using richly pigmented gel sticks, guiding the composition with emotion rather than perfection. Each layer became a way to listen; to the woman in the painting, and to the voice within myself.

Sunflowers carry a language of their own. Often associated with joy and warmth, they also represent loyalty to the light. They turn their faces toward the sun yet still know how to stand tall when shadows fall. In this piece, the sunflowers don’t just accompany her, they mirror her. Together, they tell a story of blooming from within, of finding light not just around us, but inside us.

This artwork is part of Golden Bloom, a subcollection that honors the strength it takes to grow in a world that asks us to shrink. It was made for women who are learning to embrace all that they are at every stage, in every form. Whether you’re walking through a season of growth or simply learning to rest in your being, this piece offers a visual reminder: your presence is enough.

Let it speak to the parts of you still learning to shine. Let it remind you that blooming is not a destination, but a daily act of courage.

Dimensions:

• 12 x 12 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.