Arise

Sometimes life can be a hurtful, discouraging journey. In this picture, Joy (me) has finally used up her last bit of strength to keep on (her fainted stance), her wounds standing for the trials and battles that have hampered her as she failingly pursued triumph over them.

But deep inside, she has a courage and strength so large ("The heart of a Lion") that she is able to get up, stronger than ever (in the Lion form; who, of course, comes from a far Greater Power), and overcome that which hindered her before.

I love to wander deeply into sybolism, so, if you don't understand something about this piece, feel free to ask, and I'll explain it. (:

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Other: Coloring this piece was an adventure. I went for a semi realistic look for the Lion's face. And experimented with my shading just a bit. Using slightly different hues and that "toe shading" Balaa does so beauifully. ;3

A bit of self-encouragement, I guess. I intend to take this picture with me when I begin "real school" for the first time this summer so it can reassure me when/if I feel small.