Tools & Talismans #10 Hillary Rain
Reflections. I see them so differently since I've started this painting series. I've never painted this realistically before—attempting to capture the shapes and images as closely as I can, and representing them as they are, with light and shadow and dimension. When I started planning this project I thought the main challenge was going to be re-creating objects realistically—what’s surprised me though are the importance of the reflections, the lights and the shadows. I've come to realize that if I can create those things with my paint and brushes, the piece is then whole and dimensional. It's all in the highlights and shadows.
These tools and talismans represent me to the core. The incense and candle represent bringing my Self and Spirit to my work; the oil, body cream, lip balm and body spray show my love for soft hydration, commitment to self-care as I work and the fact that I have very dry skin and love earthy, natural fragrances! I have a blank permission slip, a pen, and meaningful art always near me to inspire and nourish my creativity. I also keep nail clippers by my keyboard because ever since my years of work as a massage therapist, I can’t stand having long fingernails so keep them trimmed. And the gleam from my palm-sized labradorite reminds me of the inherent light within, my connection to the feminine divine, and the mystery I love.
—Hillary Rain, wanderess. creative alchemist, seeker & seer
Tools & Talismans is a personal painting project where I’m documenting {in watercolor} the tools and talismans of 100 different women — creators and healers, thinkers and makers, wordsmiths and visionaries. Join me for a year of Tools & Talismans — a new painting will post every Wednesday.
