Abstract Art Layers: I Woke Up Anxious

Why Do We Question Ourselves so Much?

I Woke Up Anxious, 2023.
Acrylic on Canvas - 24” x 24” x 1.5”

            Art That Begins           

   with Personal Context   

I Woke Up Anxious tells the story of the fear we feel as our children grow up and the surrounding anxiety about what they will face. We worry they will struggle with what we did. We want to trust them, but also protect their innocence. We can see when they are standing in the way of themselves. We hold our breath when they choose the friend that will hurt them or the activity that will bring them pain. And yet, at a certain age, we can only love them. They are not looking for advice anymore. They just want us to listen. And so we listen and hope that our relationship is strong enough that they will turn back to us when they are ready.

Final Version of I Woke Up Anxious 

    Art Inspired Writing    

I Woke Up Anxious

I had a dream about you last night. You were me when I was an early teenager and men were trying to flirt with you. I had a full panic attack because I wanted to protect you and let you stay innocent for as long as you wanted. You didn’t think the flirting was a big deal in the dream, but I knew it would change you. 

Art Process and Versions of I Woke Up Anxious

         Reflecting on         

      the Art Process      

As artists, we often question if a piece is done. But if we listen to our instincts, we know that if we are asking, there is still something to change. Why do we question ourselves so much? I think the nature of creating relies on looking deep within ourselves for expression. It is hard to listen to our intuition when so many things in life can distract us. So many of us are highly sensitive, so the outside world can be both an inspiration and a distraction. Here is a moment to remember to trust your instincts, listen to your heart and be brave enough to follow through. 

A Note of Thanks

I would love to hear your thoughts on this piece or any of the others on the website. Creating art and sharing my story is intimidating but so worth the amazing conversations and connections I have found with people. Thank you for being a part of my journey.