A Reflection of Peace …Or is It?

Leighton’s work of Art spoke to me and embraces recent feelings based on current events.

My Ekphrasis about my vision…

A light can signal a sense of calmness.

This feeling is of warmth and peace.

She’s tired, tired of stressing, tired of waiting.

Tired of being afraid. 

If she sleeps she cannot think.

There is no choice but to rest, rest her mind.  

Feeling the ocean breeze, she is at peace.

This sensual comfort relaxes her.

She has waited and worried.

It’s time to sleep, sleep to rebuild.

Rebuild what has been exhausted,

The mind, the heart, the body.

Theres more to come,

She will get through it. 

This reflection is the light. 

Her light at the end of the tunnel.

She prays, she tries to remain strong.

For her family, wishing this was all just a bad dream.

The visual piece I chose to write an Ekphrasis about was this Flaming June painting. This painting caught my eye. I thought it was beautiful. The color of her dress was breathtaking, airy, and transparent. Her hair is falling precisely around her. I felt it ideally in capturing the moment of the picture. It has a bright yet soft tone to it. The sun is shining and reflecting off the water, complimenting her dress beautifully. The woman in the painting looks comfortable, peaceful. When reading my translation in the Ekphrasis and comparing this to the original meaning, it is different. I emphasized the need to be comfortable and relax. This may not be the case. This Painting is a victorian style painting and presents uncertainty. A woman is sleeping peacefully, but no details about what she is dreaming about, nor did I notice that the flower next to her in the painting was poisonous. Perhaps this is symbolizing death. There are many different perspectives on this painting. I just related to it on a personal level. These days have been hard on all of us. Our families, job, and worry have caused more stress and anxiety, causing us to run ourselves down. At least for myself anyway. I felt a sense of calming and relaxation with this painting. The mood seemed to fit, the colors a mix of orange and golden tones and reflecting the sun off the water both create a tranquil aura. Therefore, although this painting may signify another meaning, I used it to my advantage. At first glance, I saw a beautiful woman resting peacefully and hoped I could soon do the same.