LUNA

Work from the series "I AM"

This series tells the stories of a handful of women, who indirectly represent women all over the world. I try to convey the story, personalities and character of these ladies, while also trying to inspire the viewer to search their true authentic self when they look into their eyes. What do you see in them? Can you guess their story? What is your first impression? Looks can be deceiving…And when you look closely, what then...do you see in yourself? What is your story? What do you portray to the world?

And is it real?

LUNA

This painting is part of a series of woman from South Africa. This young woman is called LUNA. LUNA means 'moon'. She was inspired by hope. The light she is holding symbolizes the hope we have to hold on to in difficult times. LUNA personifies women who are living on the streets, single moms, women in abusive relationships, and women who do not see an outcome...LUNA wants to let you know that to hold on to hope is a choice. She rarely smiles, but when she does, it is the most beautiful sight in the world. People can't keep their eyes off her when she does! She went to a private school but when her dad left, she ran away from home and went to live with her boyfriend. She fell pregnant, he left her, she had an abortion and that was when she tried to kill herself. She was found by a missionary in a street alley. He took her to a hospital, then a women’s shelter. But LUNA could not stop crying. They kept in touch, and after a while LUNA's heart began to heal. Six years later, he asked her to marry him. Now they roam the streets together, sharing the hope that lives in them. Because of LUNA and her husband, many young women have been saved this way. She does not have many reasons to smile, but when she thinks of her aborted baby, she can not help but smile now. Her source of pain has caused her to meet the kindest man ever, one that loves her above anything else. But more importantly, her pain has caused her to cling to hope.

“Oh LUNA, you bring hope to others in dark places. What a gift you have...”