Unexpected encounters on the art table

Sometimes, when you show up at the painty table, the most unexpected things can happen.

It started with some watercolor play. Scribbly brush strokes, playful little marks, some splatters.

When it all dried, I went in with some more mark making, and on a whim, a bit of intuitive drawing with some orange acrylic paint.

When I returned to the page the next day, I saw a little face, as I so often do, attached to a funny looking body. I thought it would make a cute little imaginary figure, so I sketched it in.

Reached for some orange acrylics to firm up the lines. Added a tail on a whim, and I immediately knew this was no imaginary figure. With a hitch of the breath and a heart filled with wonder and awe, I knew that it was my beautiful boy, Loki, here for a little visit.

It’s been one whole year without his antics. One year of missing the way he’d lounge on the bookshelf, drop some books when he wanted our attention, or snuggle up beside us when we were unwell. Seeing him show up on the page filled my heart with joy and gratitude and a tinge of sadness too.

That’s the thing with art, though — especially intuitive art, or painting without a plan. You have the most unexpected encounters in the layers of paint.

I hadn’t planned on doing a painting for Loki this year. I chose to mark the one-year anniversary of his transition across the rainbow bridge by creating a simple little crystal grid for him, with his favorite bamboo leaves, some selenite and rose quartz for love, and clear quartz to amplify it all.

To have him show up like that felt like a connection through the ether…a little bit of art magic…

Know someone who would enjoy a peek into the studio? Consider sharing this post or restacking it to your Notes. Word of mouth is how this small creative community grows, and I’m so grateful for your support.