A man visited me at the studio one day to ask whether I could paint his story. We sat and chatted for hours. He told me about his wife; how when she walks in a room everyone turns their heads, and how she radiates and shines like a sunny day.
He shared a special memory. They’d spent an evening on the coast and witnessed 13 shooting stars together. He told me how he’d fallen even deeper in love at that moment.
From his stories, I painted The Love Tree. The tree is an abundant, overflowing vessel of blossoms and colour, a symbol of true love.
The flying fish represents the man telling this story. His form is a symbol of his deep connection and love for his wife. Fish can live in the shallows or dive into unknown waters. They show us that diving deeper will help us understand ourselves and discover so much more to life. There is strength in emotion. Feeling deeply keeps your heart warm and connected.
Kookaburras flying around the tree represent this couple’s strong bonds with their family and friends. Kookaburras are known to stay and look after their loved ones. They’re very connected as a family unit. They also bring with them joy, laughter and communication, calling out to their loved ones with their raucous laughter.
The turtles represent their two children and are a symbol of happiness and gratitude in this piece. Their children remind them to be grateful for everything they have and not take each other for granted. Turtles remind us to slow down, look around and appreciate what’s in front of us.
Stop looking for tomorrow and just be in the moment, appreciate today, and you will find happiness.
Lastly, shootings stars are their memories. That split second of beauty in the sky you will never forget.
