Creating a Zen garden within

11×14 oil pastel portrait

This is the first peek into the new 11×14 inch portraits I’m creating, which I talked about last week. I’ve titled this piece – Creating a Zen Garden Within.

I created this piece while in a calm, meditative state of mind. I was thinking about the beauty of being peaceful within, and the importance of finding stillness in a busy world. I wanted this painting to serve as a reminder that even in the midst of chaos, we can always find a moment of tranquility, if we take the time to look for it within ourselves. If you give peace any thought, you’ll realize that within is the only place you’ll find it.

I also had this quote in mind…

In the small silent oasis of one moment,
practise turning inward for rest and refuge.

Ayyā Medhānandī Bhikkhun

You can read her book Going Forth, Going Beyond Dhamma Reflections 1996 – 2007. She generously offers it to us for free, and it’s a beautiful way to spend an afternoon. I’m so grateful. Brew some tea, and revel in her knowledge. You won’t be sorry.

May you have a happy creative weekend.

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If you haven’t checked out my eBay store or Etsy in a while, I’ve been adding new artwork there every day. You can get some great deals on my weekly eBay auctions and/or on some of my flash sales I have on Etsy.

As always, if you want to say hello or have any questions you can write me here. I love getting email, and hearing from you.

Other places to find me online.

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