I've always loved art, but it wasn't until 2021 that I began to explore that artistic side of me. Though, I mainly used it as a tool to cope with my emotions. The canvas helped me release my frustrations, held my distress when I couldn't, and healed a small piece of me, one painting at a time. It was my therapy.

When I was asked if I could contribute to Creative Connections, I had no idea what I would share. I haven't done much art that felt like a creative expression of myself, and I certainly didn't feel deserving of the title of artist.

So, I made a list of all the things that ignited curiosity, promoted playfulness, and gave me energy. This list led to going through old boxes that contained life's trash and treasures. Each item with a story and an experience that shaped me into who I am. Which got me thinking, "Man, my kids don't know who I am or the significance that these boxes hold." 

That's how I came up with this piece.

It's a snapshot of a moment of my life in a box.

"Church & Me 2020" shows a childlike depiction of the year I left the church and reads, "I was on fire for the Lord, that's why I've been burned."

When I started this piece, I wasn't sure how I was going to create each component. All I knew (and consistently reminded myself) is that I am just trying to make a snapshot of my life. I wasn't trying to do anything special or spectacular. Just be and express my ordinary self.

Now my art is a place where I can play and get a little whimsical. I look forward to continuing this series and developing my craft as I develop as an artist.

Instagram: @spirit.of.shane