When pondering a theme for my upcoming solo show at the Workhouse Arts Center, in Lorton, Virginia, I just needed to look around my garden. An unexpected visitor brought a smile on my face as it flitted and fluttered from flower to flower.

When tending to my garden, on these beautiful spring days, I see butterflies frequently. They may seem insignificant, but these beautiful little creatures have a special meaning.

Butterflies symbolize transition or rebirth and some believe that they represent the souls of those who have recently departed from this mortal world. In ancient Greek the word for butterfly is “Psyche,” which translated means soul.  This fragile insect goes through an impressive process of metamorphosis and transition—from egg, caterpillar, cocoon and then finally emerging as a beautiful butterfly. And even more amazing, the butterfly seems to unquestioningly embrace all these changes of environment and body—surrendering and having faith. 

The flowers and butterflies in this series of paintings represent how fleeting life is and serve as reminder to keep faith, and to accept change as it comes, and most of all to trust and believe in the power of God’s transforming grace.

My Dad always taught me, if you trust God, even during your greatest struggles and battles of life, he will create in us a portrait of beauty, strength, and splendor. Out of challenges, can come opportunities, that we didn’t think were possible. I hope to emerge and accept transitions as brilliantly as the butterfly and my wish for those who view these painting is: 

“May the wings of the butterfly kiss

the sun and find your shoulder to light on,

to bring you luck, happiness and riches today, tomorrow and beyond.”

—Irish Blessing

This series is dedicated to my father who passed away on August, 13, 2012.

The butterflies represent his loving, kind and patient spirit.

Every time I see a butterfly, I smile and think of him,—

I miss him so, but I am grateful he is in a better place.