This painting has exhibited several times, most recently at The Vogt Arts Center in Tinley Park, IL. Feelings of fear are what often hold us back, so in this painting, the female figure has found her strength and has taken up arms to confront her fears. The handle of the sword bears the symbols for hope, love and courage. She is holding the knowledge that no matter what life may bring, we can get through it as long as we never lose hope, do things with courage and act out of love.

Music I listened to while creating this piece: Fleetwood Mac, Soundtrack to the movie "The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring", Britney Spears, Guns N' Roses