FOREST CATHEDRAL

In representing diversity, equity and inclusion, I chose to use an expressionistic style. Although I am known for stylized realism, sometimes I find that conveying an abstract concept like a feeling or an emotion lends itself better to expressionism. So the idea of diversity, equity and equality was an ideal concept for this. In this work, I still find myself firmly rooted in my inspiration from nature; a spring forest scene ablaze with light. However, instead of painting realistic varying hues of green, I included a multitude of colors you wouldn’t expect, and which weren’t actually present in the scene I used as a reference. Here, the many colors represent diversity and inclusion. If I had limited myself to a palette of greens, grays and browns, it may have been beautiful, but it wouldn’t have had the impact that the completed painting conveys. And so it is in life. Sameness and uniformity does have a kind of beauty, but when you push the boundaries and explore options, a world of possibilities is open to you. Possibilities you may not have ever considered before may be scary if you’re used to safety, but if you take that step of bravery you will find your soul expanding. Celebrating the differences in our humanity will always make us stronger.