I wanted to paint something from my heart, and so I did. I closed my eyes and thought about where I would most like to be, and in my husband’s arms came to mind. One step further was in his arms on a beautiful beach at sunset. And so here is my latest creation, a hand painted card to express true love. 

(c) 2014 Amanda Balough

I really enjoyed painting this one, putting myself into the scene, and imagining the soothing sound of the crashing waves along with the illuminous colors of the sky. Movies use scenes like this because they are magical and touch our soul, either with a memory or a longing, or both.

I loaded on the paint here, playing with texture in ways I had not explored before, and I am pleased with the results. Sadly my photo may not capture the depth here, so I will describe what my eyes can see but can’t seem to get my camera to capture. The couple is not a flat black silhouette, but a mixture a deep violets and blues built up to show a hint of body form as they reach for each other. Hair and dress flow freely in the ocean breeze. The edge is trimmed in stippled white to give the impression that the scene is floating in a surreal dream – because that is what it feels like when time stands still and only the lovers exist for that moment when souls embrace.

Yes, I have an uncontrollable romantic side. Time to let that out and see what else my heart wants to paint.

This item and many more like it will soon be available for purchase in my etsy shop, right in time for Valentine’s Day.

What message would you like to send a loved one? I’d love suggestions for images that make you feel loved.