The Woman In The Light

After 40 years of active opioid addiction, my older sister went to detox, then into recovery. The day she left the hospital, as she napped on my living room sofa, neither of us had any idea what was to come, “NEXT”. Not knowing what to do or what to expect, I sat with my sketchpad and watched her sleep. Today, at 74 years old, grateful and with two rewarding years of sobriety, she claims to have never been happier. Connie, now works as a Recovery Coach in Pittsfield, MA. Her recovery is truly a gift from God to me, and this piece is my gift to Connie. She is my biggest fan and inspired me to submit this work to be shown.

"Woman in the Light" is a double entendre of sorts. The scene outside the window plays on one of Matisse’s window pieces, while inside Connie hides her face from the sunlight. I wanted to elucidate the stark, somber mood inside the room while showing the bright light and playful mood outside. This 3’ x 4’ oil on canvas was started in 2017 and completed in 2020.