Embracing Change: My Artistic Journey from City Life to the Forest

Finding Peace in Nature

I grew up in Los Angeles, specifically in Whittier. My world was city life. The fast pace. The constant movement. Always on the go. Yet, even back then, I envisioned a different reality. I dreamed of a place wrapped in trees. I recall watching movies that depicted quiet, small towns, where life moved slower and softer. I longed for that escape.

Six years ago, I made a life-changing decision. I lost someone I loved dearly. My boyfriend became ill and passed away suddenly. That grief altered something within me. It made me yearn for a fresh start. My sister already resided in Washington, so I decided to pack up my life. With my son and my mom, we left everything behind and made the leap. I never looked back.

Discovering the Beauty of Washington

My love for this new place runs deep. The forests are lush and wild, teeming with life. The ocean surrounds us, offering a calm I never experienced in the city. It feels like living in a dream I once envisioned. Moss blankets the trees and even creeps onto the streets. The aroma of rain-soaked earth is something I wish I could bottle. The air feels fresh and grounding. Each day, I am in awe of the beauty surrounding me. This feeling inspired my painting, "Mossy."

The Creation of "Mossy"

"Mossy" serves as a portal. It offers a visual escape into the world of trees. I chose oil paint for this piece, allowing the greens to mix and layer beautifully. Seven different shades of green were meticulously selected to reflect the varying depths and tones I encounter daily in the forest. To achieve the desired texture, I began with modeling paste, mimicking the thick, earthy feel of real moss. You can almost feel its texture with your eyes.

At the heart of the painting, I included a water lily portal, paying homage to the ocean that I cherish. My goal was to unite both elements of this land that have granted me tranquility—the forest and the sea. A subtle hint of gold accents the piece, not overpowering but enhancing the texture and movement. It glimmers in the light, creating a sense of enchantment.

The Emotional Connection

For me, "Mossy" feels like home. It represents a fusion of grief, healing, and a profound connection to the land I now claim as mine. This painting is more than mere colors on a canvas; it embodies a memory, a dream fulfilled, and a gentle thank you to nature for its unwavering support.

The Transition from Urban to Rural Living

Moving from a bustling city to a quiet forest community was a significant transition. In Los Angeles, I thrived on energy and excitement. However, Washington taught me the value of stillness. The gentle rustle of leaves, the soft whispers of the forest, and the calming waves of the ocean became my new soundtrack. This change brought a sense of peace I had been longing for.

Navigating Grief and Healing

The loss of a loved one is an indescribable pain. However, my journey through grief led me to the healing embrace of nature. The serene landscapes of Washington offered me solace. Each hike through the forest felt like a step toward emotional recovery. Here, I found the capacity to reflect, to remember, and ultimately, to heal.

Celebrating Nature Through Art

Art became my voice. Painting allowed me to express emotions that I often struggled to articulate. "Mossy" is a celebration of the beauty I found in nature, a way to honor the memories of my past while embracing my present. Each brushstroke was therapeutic, allowing me to meld my grief with the splendor of my surroundings.

Connecting with the Community

Relocating also brought the opportunity to connect with a new community. The people here appreciate nature’s beauty just as much as I do. Together, we explore the landscapes, share stories, and support each other in creative pursuits. Each gathering feels like a reminder that we are all intertwined in this journey, connected by nature’s bounty.

Conclusion

In retrospect, my move from Whittier to Washington has been transformative. It has allowed me to cultivate a deeper appreciation for life’s simplicity. I’ve discovered healing within nature and found my artistic voice through it. As I continue to create, I hope to inspire others to seek their path, whether it leads them into the woods or toward their own passions.

Each piece I create is a testament to my journey, a whisper of the beauty that comes from embracing change, healing, and understanding the profound connection we share with the earth.