On Finding a Kindred Spirit

I don't know if you've figured it out yet, but I LOVE BOOKS--particularly those of a fictional/fantastical/folktale nature. Not only do I use the written word for the foundation (literally) of my paintings, but on very special occasions, I find inspiration for my visual stories from books I've read.

One day earlier this fall, I was enjoying lunch at a used bookstore and coffee shop when I happened upon this small book with a blue cover, titled STARGIRL. Although the cover wasn't particularly interesting, I decided to open it up and read the first chapter. It was an instant connection. I don't know if you've ever experienced this in reading, but there are some books that just grab you--sometimes it's the twists and turns of the story, but in this case, it was the character of Stargirl. She is one of the most interesting characters I've ever met--and most definitely a kindred spirit.

For those of you who have yet to meet her, Stargirl is a free spirit--someone who walks to the beat of her own drum, and celebrates the smallest things in life, as well as the big things. She dresses the way she wants to dress, without paying any heed to the thoughts of her peers. She searches the newspaper for the small, happy things--rather than focusing on the headlines, and takes note of the birthdays of everyone in town so that she can leave them small gifts and handwritten cards. I could go on, but, really, you should just read the book!

Within a few lunch breaks, I had finished the book, and immediately knew I needed to paint the character of Stargirl. In fact, this was one of the few instances in which I knew exactly how I needed to paint her. That evening I began my painting, which you can see completed below.

In this painting, you can see the character of Stargirl, adding stars to the night sky while balancing on the tops of colorful buildings. Below is a portrayal of the in-crowd, too concerned with their popularity and the need to meet social norms to notice the beauty around them. The only person looking up from the crowd is another character from the book--a boy who was intrigued by Stargirl, and secretly wanted to be free like her, but was too worried about what his peers might think of him.

Can you believe all the inspiration that can come from one little, seemingly boring-looking book? If you haven't read "Stargirl," and happen to come across a blue book with a star and a stick person on the front, I would encourage you to pick it up and give it a read! It's a short book, but one that is packed with very powerful messages!

Have an inspiring and restful weekend!

Cheers,