Ghost Child:
Portrait of my mother

Quietly turning the back door key…stepping outside she is free.
(She’s Leaving Home” by John Lennon and Paul McCartney)

This is a portrait of my mother after her passing. She experienced abuse and neglect as a child. This is my attempt to envision her finally breaking free from the hurt and pain she always carried with her. The skyscape “postcard” on the lower left is there to suggest a way out and freedom into the Mojave sky. To me the desert is a very healing place. Silent. Beautiful. Vast. Free.

The socks and marbles are intended to give the impression of things that concern home, family and childhood. The cardinals are used to represent my mother and also a kind of angelic presence watching and guiding souls on their journey through this life. I believe my mother is at peace and on new, happier adventures.

Oil on canvas / 48 x 36 (NFS)