This was the first painting I did at the International Artist Residency in Warsaw, Poland.

We were a group of artists from different countries, all doing different media and sharing the energy and experience of the moment. We had a Joomchi artist, a sculpture/painter, a weaver, an illustrator/painter, a watercolorist and I was painting in acrylic and combining that with collage of found objects.

It was my first trip to Warsaw, and it had a powerful impact on me and my work there. I was so moved by the warmth and determination of the people. And by the hard times they have endured. The city is a mixture of pre- and post- war architecture and landmarks. Old and new. We visited a nearby park where they have two piano concerts every Sunday summer afternoon featuring the music of Chopin. It was a glorious day. There must have been 1,500 people there of all ages.

They seem to embrace their past with dignity honoring those lost and look forward to their future.

Some see a heart in this painting and some see faces or perhaps a city. To me it is all of the above. It is what the viewer defines it to be. The metal mesh was part of a myriad of renovation building materials available for our use. It represents the struggle from which the Polish people have emerged stronger, more resolute and dedicated to their hard fought freedom. And this is why I titled this piece, "Courage"...

Size: 32" x 28"

Mixed media: Acrylic paint, paper and metal mesh.

This can be hung either vertically or horizontally. I hang it vertically myself...

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Virginia Donovan Fine Art

Frederick, MD 21701 USA

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