I believe art has the power to connect us, not just to the work itself but to our own experiences and emotions.  While I love when people find their own meaning in a painting, I also really like knowing what the artist was thinking when working on a certain piece. So, here’s the story behind this one.

The Hugs We Couldn’t Give is part of a series where I explore family, traditions, and relationships. In creating  it, I found myself reflecting on the moments we miss when a loved one passes away. My brother was only 15 when our dad died, and they shared a bond that I know has left a lasting void in his life. So many conversations, experiences, and embraces never had the chance to happen, and it made me sad. To honor them both, I imagined what those moments might have been – creating a happier vision both in my mind and on paper. 

When my brother and I talked about this piece, he reminded me of a conversation we’d had a few years back about the things we wished we could have accepted when we were younger and the regrets we carry.
About this piece  he said “gracias porque me haces parte de tu arte…[que] me genera muchas emociones positivas” – which means: “thank you for making me part of your art and the positive emotions it generates” I can’t add to that, I’m just grateful that it worked in the intended way..

Art has the power to heal. It allows us to process our pain, honor the past, and reimagine a future full of hope and connection. Though we can’t change what’s already happened, through creativity, we can heal our present and shape a future we desire.

How do you imagine the missed embraces in your life?