Renewal of My Spirit: How a Willow Tree Changed My Life and My Art
There’s a Willow Tree at Edgewater Park in Cleveland, Ohio—a magnificent, resilient presence on the rugged coast of Lake Erie. Standing beneath its sprawling branches, you feel as if Mother Nature herself is wrapping you in an embrace. This Willow isn’t just any tree. At an estimated 70-80 years old, it has defied the odds of its harsh environment, surviving storms, harsh winters, and a rocky landscape. Willows typically live only 30-50 years, and yet, here it stands—a quiet testament to resilience.
The first time I saw the Willow, it was autumn. A month prior, its branches had been full of vibrant green leaves, but on that day, the tree was draped in muted yellows, set against a moody, overcast sky. There was a gentleness in how it swayed, its leaves softly descending like a graceful dance. Even though the tree seemed subdued, there was a beauty in its quiet strength—a kind of dignity that held its own in the face of nature’s cycles. I felt a deep connection to it that day, as if the tree was reflecting my own journey of perseverance, survival, and quiet transformation.
Through my art process, I began capturing images of the Willow, revealing colors and details that I hadn’t consciously noticed before. My work, with its surreal, hyper-color style, brought out shades of reds, purples, pinks, and vibrant yellows that seemed to breathe new life into the familiar form. I hadn’t chosen these colors; they emerged, hidden in plain sight, waiting to be found. For me, this explosion of color felt like a celebration—a vibrant reminder of the resilience and beauty we often overlook. I called this series *Renewal of My Spirit*, and it became more than just a collection of images; it became a mirror reflecting my journey of healing and self-discovery.
The *Renewal of My Spirit* series changed my perspective on life and art. The Willow’s endurance in such a harsh environment resonated deeply with me, and it ignited something within me—a commitment to pursue life with honesty and authenticity. The Willow became my own personal Mi Sheberach, a symbol of my journey toward healing, gratitude, and renewal. Standing by that tree was the moment I truly found myself as an artist.
Since creating this series, I feel more connected to my purpose than ever before. Through *Renewal of My Spirit*, I’ve come to realize that resilience is often quiet, hidden just beneath the surface, much like the colors that emerged in my work. It’s a reminder that, even when we feel worn down or invisible, there’s an inherent beauty within us that’s just waiting to be seen.
As I move forward, I plan to revisit this Willow and let it inspire me again and again. My hope is that the series will continue to evolve with me, reflecting each new phase of my life and journey. I want to explore new ways to share the spirit of this tree—whether through new artworks, different mediums, or even community events that invite others to connect with it. I hope that as people see this Willow through my eyes, they’ll feel a spark of their own resilience, a reminder of the beauty they carry within.
For now, this tree stands as a reminder of where I’ve been and where I’m going. The Willow may face harsh winters, strong winds, and changing seasons, but it remains. And as long as I’m able, I’ll continue to find new ways to tell its story and, through it, my own.
