Flying Free: A Story of Freedom, Loss, and Hope
Today would have been my mom’s 71st birthday, and I can’t think of a better way to honor her than by sharing the story behind my artwork, Flying Free. This piece holds a deeply personal meaning for me, representing not only her life but also the freedom and joy I believe she now experiences.
The Backstory of Flying Free
In May, just weeks before my mom passed away, an image came vividly to my mind. I saw a woman swinging high in the sky, her hair flowing, carefree and joyful. I felt compelled to create it. I even bought a white wig and planned to wear a colorful jumpsuit she had given me years ago.
But life got in the way, and the photoshoot was postponed. Then, on June 11th, my mom passed away unexpectedly. We were incredibly close, and her loss shattered me.
Shortly after, I had a dream. I saw her vividly, swinging high in the sky, silver hair blowing in the wind, free from all the pain and burdens of this world. It was almost identical to the vision I’d had weeks earlier but so much richer. I woke up with a deep sense of comfort and clarity.
Biblical Inspiration for Flying Free
The biblical foundation for Flying Free comes from the truth that freedom is not just for the life to come—it’s available now. Verses like Isaiah 40:31 remind us:
“But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” - Isaiah 40:31
This artwork speaks to living a life anchored in faith, free from fear or shame. It’s a visual anthem for hope and renewal, inspired by God’s promises and the freedom found in His presence.
Creating Flying Free: A Tribute to My Mom
When I finally created Flying Free, it became a tribute to my mom’s freedom and joy. The bright, playful colors in the image capture her spirit, and the flowing movement of the figure represents the freedom I believe she now experiences in heaven.
It’s also a reminder that this kind of freedom isn’t just for the future—it’s for now. We can live anchored in God’s truth and fly free from fear, shame, and the burdens that weigh us down.
You can bring this message into your home or share it with someone who needs encouragement through the products available in this series:
• Wall Art: Perfect for adding inspiration and hope to your living space.
• Greeting Cards: Share encouragement with loved ones through beautiful, faith-filled cards.
• Limited-Edition Prints: Exclusive, museum-quality art pieces signed and numbered for a meaningful addition to your collection.
A Personal Journey of Faith and Healing
This piece isn’t just about my mom’s journey; it’s about all of us. We all carry burdens—grief, fear, shame—that keep us from living fully. But God’s promise is that we don’t have to carry them alone. Flying Free reminds us to lift our eyes, anchor ourselves in His truth, and step into the freedom that only He can provide.
If you’re navigating grief, loss, or the weight of this world, I hope this artwork brings you peace and a renewed sense of hope.
Behind the Scenes: Creating the Image
Creating Flying Free was as liberating as the message itself. I shot this self-portrait on the beach, wearing the jumpsuit my mom gave me and the white wig I’d purchased for the original vision. The wind, the waves, and the movement of the swing all came together to create something magical.
Even the act of shooting this image felt like stepping into the freedom I wanted to convey. It was a moment of honoring my mom while stepping into the healing process myself.
Bring "Flying Free" Into Your Life
Whether you’re drawn to the bright colors, the powerful message, or the personal story behind it, Flying Free is a piece that speaks to living with hope and faith.
Explore more in the Freedom Collection, and find artwork that inspires you to live anchored in God’s truth.
