As is typical of my winter inspiration, I've been inundated with images of psychological challenges. This month's new painting speaks to the plight of people who suffer with social anxiety disorder. I believe it emerged from the shadows to remind us of the complexities of human nature. It now sits on my website, waiting for you to explore it and be nurtured by its depth. My hope is that this painting will serve as fodder for the more compassionate you that will bloom this spring.

Central eye: a symbol of disassociation, whereby the afflicted person suffers with disruptions of memory, awareness, identity, or perception. It is a pathological and involuntary defense mechanism that may occur during extreme social stress.  

Contorted figure: the changes a person may put themselves through to accommodate a social norm.

Dove with open wings: a symbol of a higher consciousness, or guiding principles. 

Eyes: judgmental views.

Fish: emotional ups and downs.

Mandala: a geometric figure representing the seeker’s search for completeness and self-unity.

Open mouths: expressed opinions.

Pointing fingers: the gesture of pointing is used to indicate a location, person, event, thing or idea. Pointing may vary substantially across cultures. Pointing, especially at other people, may be considered inappropriate or rude in certain contexts and in many cultures. 

An interpretation of this painting can be found HERE. The motivation for this work is explained HERE.