"Awaken" captures the transformative moment of self-discovery, a deep breath before stepping into one’s power. The woman, bathed in golden light, exudes strength, resilience, and serenity. Her gaze is poised toward an unseen horizon, embodying the quiet confidence of someone who has overcome darkness and now stands in the light.

This piece is deeply personal, reflecting my own journey of renewal—how art became my sanctuary, a space where time slows and the soul finds clarity. Inspired by the raw beauty of emotions and the ever-shifting interplay of light and shadow, "Awaken" invites the viewer to connect with their own moments of awakening, resilience, and inner peace.

Created using a mixed-media* approach, "Awaken" begins with a richly textured background, layered with inks and acrylics to set an ethereal, dreamlike atmosphere. Expressive brushstrokes, delicate gold leaf accents, and a final layer of oil paint bring depth and vibrancy, enhancing the interplay of light across the figure’s form.

The woman in "Awaken" is both a reflection of my artistic evolution and an invitation for the viewer to embrace their own journey. Her pose—arms lifted, heart open—symbolizes release, renewal, and empowerment. The flowing textures of her dress merge into the background, blurring the line between the physical and the emotional, the seen and the unseen.

*MIXED MEDIA  This painting is created using mixed media; a combination of acrylics, inks, and oil paints on Strathmore watercolor paper 300Series mounted on 18''x24'' wrap canvas with edges covered with goldLeaf (ready to hang).