Shapes appear in the shadows as I walk the cool paths through the forest. Small tree stumps are blanketed by moss and decomposing needles. Large tall trees tower over the stumps protecting them from wind and rain. Branches twist and turn sculpted by the elements throughout time. How many have walked these paths beneath the trees? What stories would these trees tell if given the chance? I was talking with a fellow artist friend from Roma, Italy about this very idea after she read one of my previous blogs on the Redwoods. Her name is Celia Blanco and here is the link to her website if you would like to view some amazing watercolors! She is also a lovely lady. This one friendly chat of inspirational thoughts solidifies we are all connected. Worlds away and the internet brought us together like two trees in a forest. This is what my painting series is all about. Togetherness. Here is the third painting in the series, “Redwoods-Stand United.”
This painting incorporates my love of the Redwood forests and the beauty all around us. The forest scene adds colors from real life as well as my imagination while beneath the canopy. It is titled to show how even though we are all shaped differently, we can stand united and grow into something beautiful. I was recently speaking with a friend about how as teachers, we protect children from everything, especially bullying. I write this because it is a good reminder as adults. How are our actions or words representing what we want to teach or show children growing up in this world? How can we “Stand United,” to show strength and love? As adults we have a huge responsibility like those tall trees in the forest to protect the life beneath them. Also keeping in mind the forest floor protects the tall trees as well. All of us together. We are all made different and this is such a beautiful thing. Even though trees look similar, they are all unique, yet they help one another survive. I hope these thoughts leave you with hope. Have a Terrific Tuesday and thank you for reading!
-Karen Hilliard
2 replies on ““Redwoods – Stand United””
I found this blog especially inspirational.
From your chat with your friend in Italy
(and how you promote her work) about how we are all connected even worlds away. Then talking to your teacher friend about how our words and actions teach our children. I like how you link this to nature. Just like the trees in the forest, we help each other survive.
These thoughts do leave me with hope for the future.
I am so pleased this blog spoke to you and leaves you with “hope for the future.” This series is about strength, hope, and perseverance. Thank you for writing this comment and reading my blogs. I really appreciate you <3