About this Piece:

I made this as part of a concentration, focusing on the theme of “separate but connected”. It is one of my favorites I have done. It is completely pen, and roughly 14 x 10 3/4 in. (original size). Completed in 2019. It features a girl sitting by the edge of a large grassy pond, pointing to a couple of flying cranes. Every inch is detailed pen work. It is one of the first pieces I tackled water in. It was one of my pioneering pieces that showed me how much I enjoy using pen. I love the gentle curiosity, fascination, and innocence of this picture.

The cranes flying overhead represent freedom and grace. The girl pointing to them is fascinated by them and longs to join them. She sits up strait, one hand on the ground behind her for balance, the other reaching gently out to the flying birds.

Birds do not know boundaries. They are free to fly wherever they please. The girl and birds appear separate but they are not really. Both wish to spread their wings and take flight. The disconnectedness is an illusion we must see past. We are all connected to everyone and everything. We share an environment; a home. We desire many of the same things; security, freedom, peace.

She also sits in the dirt and grass beside a pond/ lake. There is nothing separating her from the earth and water. Water is also the universal solvent, breaking down barriers and washing away grime. It has a way of smoothing things out. The water in this piece connects the girl and birds in a peaceful way, extending infinitely into the background.