Lovely Flow by Lidia Tohar, Boca Raton Branch
8×10 acrylic on canvas
Enduring the COVID-19 Pandemic by Painting Flowers
By Lidia Tohar
Painting flowers gave me a sense of freedom that was hard to find during lockdown when we were all cooped up in pseudo quarantine. Allowing myself to enjoy the simplicity of brushstrokes was very liberating. As uncertainty hung in the air throughout the world, painting flowers gave a me a sense of empowerment and provided the security of a routine.
The ritual of bringing out the equipment — brushes, water, paint tubes, canvas, and paper — was comforting. This encounter felt safe and enjoyable. My own sacred place. In this sanctuary, I could express and process all sorts of emotions and feelings, escaping the news, fear, and turmoil of the pandemic.
The act of painting every afternoon brought a feeling a calmness and healing. It felt like a quiet meditation, a place for comfort and reassurance. Intuitive repetition of the abstract markings of flowers onto the canvas or paper brought out a feeling of balance that helped me maintain a positive state of mind. As I entered into the flow of the moment, I was able to release and express that which lies within me. I was able to visually create worlds, moments, and moods that sustained my enthusiasm and gave me a place of relief.
Every day as I entered this quiet hour, it gave me hope, joy, and excitement. These flower paintings became my rescue remedy, easing my heart and making me feel alive. My heart and soul could resonate with the creative spirit and endless possibilities that art provides.
After all these years, it still amazes me how powerful a tool art can be, granting resilience and hope.
Lidia, your painting and your thoughts about it confirm a universal feeling. We expressed ourselves however we could to cope with the surrealism of the pandemic. The abstract lines of your work suggest “this situation is not real.” Yet the cheerful colors give us hope and remind us of beauty. I love your painting and what it represents.
I have two of Lidia’s watercolors in my home. All of her paintings light up the room with the way she depicts flowers, especially roses. All her art is extremely original and equally as charming as the artist herself.
I certainly agree with you. I started the arts during pandemic when I was learning to enjoy being inside. It was not easy. Now I can not live without art. I have always loved to draw flowers and that is where I began. Lovely painting of your flowers. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for sharing your work, colorful with momentum: round and round traveling as we do through the cycles of life.
I love the dynamism created by the brushstrokes and the bold colors. Beautiful painting!
How lovely! I was shopping yesterday and found a rose-scented candle that was so real in its scent I thought I was holding a bouquet of fresh cut flowers. I put it back thinking it’s too early in the year, and I’ll keep burning pine and cinnamon ones. I regret that now–you’ve brought spring into our lives. Thank you, Lidia!
Congratulations, Lidia. What a beautiful painting and wise, comforting words!
Lydia,
It is good to know that there is always a safe space for us when we are creating. I do this as well when composing. Thank you for sharing.