Spring’s here, and what better way to celebrate than to immerse ourselves in art, reminding us of all that is good in life? Sometimes we lose sight of the immense beauty, the joy available to us in our surroundings. Placing our attention on art can remind us of the everyday magic in our lives.

Before Vincent van Gogh became van Gogh, everyone thought cypress trees and muddy farmers’ boots were ugly.

Samuel Adoquei, How Successful Artists Study

Friendship and Sunshine on the Common is one of several additions to my Be in This Place series, a body of work accompanied by simple verse which celebrates the comfort to be found in being fully present to the world, rather than to our thoughts. More works in this series may be found here.

When I'm rushing around, thinking I must do more,
That I have to try harder, all that superwoman lore,
Time with friends at the park, to slow down the pace
Helps me know all's okay, if I just be me, here, in this place.

This painting will appear alongside the work of many talented artists at Rothesay Netherwood School’s 33rd Annual Art Show and Sale, taking place both online and in person June 9-11th, 2022. Immerse yourself in the wonder — of love, of nature, of Friendship and Sunshine on the Common.