Birches in the Moonlight by Susan L.

  The Art in the Park last weekend in Stratford left me inspired. There was one artist who had several representations of birch trees. I thought to myself, "I could do that". So I did. Last night in art therapy. A quick hour and a half watercolour exploration of birch trees at night. It wasn't too bad but there were a couple of things I wasn't quite satisfied with. If I'd had more time, it could have been better. But still, for a first attempt, it had it's good qualities. (Thank You, Lord, I can say these things with gratitude. There was a time when nothing was good enough.)
  I enjoy painting night scenes. There's something special in the subtle colours illuminated by the cool light of the moon. Highlights are silvered. Textures become blurry, impressionistic almost. Another thing I like is the secretive quality of the invisible. Soft shadows hide many things. I suppose that is what this particular painting was about. I didn't so much paint trees as painted the darkeness that defined the trees.
  It captured my mood: shadowy and dark. It hinted at the struggles I am having right now with depression and anxiety. It depicted the timeless patience of a forest waiting for the sunrise like I am waiting for an appointment with my psychiatrist. Well, maybe not so patiently. Does a forest anticipate the sun? The hidden creatures of dawn must. Night is a fearful time for them, a hunting time.
  Lord, please illuminate the shadows.
  "For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, Now I will arise," says the Lord; "I will set him in the safety for which he yearns." Ps 12:5