“Vigil” ©Ruth Armitage, Watercolor on Yupo 26″x20″
I was remarking to a friend today that even though I am busier than ever, the holidays seem less rushed this year. Perhaps this is because I am making time to paint, and that makes me feel calmer. This painting began in October in my Spark Session workshop. I had a difficult time bringing it to resolution, possibly because it was such an emotionally charged subject for me.
The painting was inspired by a conversation with my mom, in which she directed me that when the time comes, she would like to have her body brought home and have the rosary and vigil on the farm. Mom had been going to quite a few funerals that week.
The painting is still part of the “Down on the Farm” series, but shifts from a view of the land to a view of Mom’s living room. The armchair, which I have changed from violet to gold, will probably be the one item that all my sisters will compete for when Mom passes.
I think it is fitting to finish this painting just before Christmas, as the word vigil can also be used to mean the eve of a holy day. I think many of us see this period just before the solstice as one of watchfulness and wonder. One of my favorite places in church is the area used for votive or vigil candles.
Holding the light, keeping awake, and devotional are all ideas associated with the word vigil. In many ways, my whole series of work about the farm is a form of vigil, watchful observation and meditation.
I hope that as we move toward the longest night of the year, you are able to keep a wakeful watch for the beauty in the world, and celebrate warmth and love for your fellow beings.
This is so beautifully painted (and written), Ruth. Thanks for sharing your inspiration. Merry Christmas.
Thank you Sue 🙂 Merry Christmas!
This is tender yet dramatic-perfect in this season, it’s a delight to see it. Thank you for posting, Ruth. I just visited my mom over Thanksgiving and although she’s well, the years do creep up on her.
I find your painting comforting.
Merry Christmas, Dori Marshall
Thank you so much, Dori! I had hoped it wouldn’t be morbid, but as if someone were there holding your hand…
Beautiful thoughts, words and painting. Blessings.
Thank you Becki!
Ruth, not morbid at all. We do everything ELSE, but watch. I wrote much of this to a friend this morning. We actually have to practice, Watching, or our days just fly by without marking anything. So many Blessings go unnoticed. I love the discussion of ceremony, mentioned a couple of times here. We are worth it. This Time of the year, is Worth it.
Well said…and very Important!
Laura
So true Laura!
Your paintings keep getting more beautiful. I had interpreted this one so differently than what you intended. I enjoy your uplifting messages. I have had a few challenges myself this past few months and I am more open than usual to sensitive, ‘spiritual’ things. Thanks for the post.
Thank you Betty, I hope your challenges turn in to blessings!
It never ceases to amaze me how your interpretation allows the viewer to “see”, but more importantly, to read and be captured by the romanticism. Your Art is the story and the story is your Art.
I think one has to be a sort of kindred soul to read the story, though! Thanks for reading & commenting!
How appropriate to change the color of her chair to gold.
A golden throne in heaven is what I imagine for your mother’s spirit.
Your creative expression brings to mind her strength, beauty and generous heart.
Your comment brought tears to my eyes, Linda. Thank you for being my most understanding friend!
I do love the painting, the warmth, textures and mark making. I was out of the country when my mom died this year, so I was not there for a vigil. I did the next best thing, hosted the celebration of her very long life. It is significant to me that 2014 will be the first year of my life that she is no longer on the planet.
Thanks Margaret, holding you in my thouhts.