My Venture into Painting

What does this quad amputee and Vincent Van Gogh have in common? We’re both artists. Just kidding. I’m a wanna-be artist. My talent is very limited but recently, Michael, Megan and I took on the challenge of painting. We went to a local Art Escape (www.artescapenh.com), a studio where you can paint your own canvas, ceramics, clay and glass.

The first thing we did when we got there is to pick out the picture that we wanted to paint. I picked a picture of a dragonfly. The dragonfly has been known to symbolize change. They also symbolize our ability to overcome times of hardship. This was a perfect choice for me because of all the changes I’ve been through. Going through amputations is certainly a period of hardship in my life. I thank God daily for my family and His love, grace and mercy. Even though I don’t understand why I got sick and why this change was part of my life, God has a plan for me. Romans 8:28 tells us “And we know that all things work together for good to them who love God, for them who are called according to his purpose”.

Megan chose a llama and Michael chose an owl to paint. Then we chose the size canvas we wanted to paint on. We found our table which was set up with easels. We grabbed paint and brushes and an apron and we got started. The step by step instructions were included with the picture. Megan traced the main part of my dragonfly onto my canvas and then I got to work. I put my paintbrush in the wrist strap that normally holds my stylus.

I wasn’t sure how I was going to paint but with the paintbrush in my wrist strap it was easy. I started by painting the dragonfly, then I painted the background. The hard part came when I had to add the wing details. Megan did that part for me. I couldn’t find a small enough paintbrush to do the detail work. Additionally I couldn’t keep my arm still enough for fine lines. She ended up using a marker. Looking at the end result, I have to say that my picture looked pretty good.

It was a great bonding experience with the kids. Megan and Michael are both far more talented artists than I am. Our trip was more than just painting a picture. It was about pushing my boundaries and spending time together. Next time I would like to throw some clay on the wheel and see what I can do. If you have any suggestions of what you think I should try, I’d love to hear it.