The Beauty of the Long Way Up

My artwork, Long Way Up, is an abstract diptych that delves into the complexities of emotions and experiences we encounter while striving for meaningful connections. It’s a reflection of my desire to express the hard-earned beauty that exists in our personal relationships, even during challenging times. From commitment and dedication to growth and understanding, these elements make up what I call “the long way up.”

The Artwork

This piece explores the strength and resilience that arise when we face challenges in relationships. It is a two-part painting created using only black, white, and genuine 24k gold leaf on two 36” x 12” canvases. As an abstract artist, these are the colors I choose to work with, as they allow me to convey a sense of balance, contrast, and depth. Through this work, I illustrate how we can find courage and hope even in difficult moments—how those qualities can guide us toward something better.

The Creative Process

I aimed for Long Way Up to be both visually striking and emotionally evocative. To achieve this, I combined the stark contrast of black and white with the warmth and brilliance of gold leaf. The gold was added as a symbol of optimism; it shines like a beacon in the darkness, guiding viewers toward what lies ahead. By layering different techniques, such as freehand drawing and splattering, I created texture, depth, and movement within the piece, enhancing its dynamic quality.

The Meaning Behind the Artwork

Long Way Up is ultimately about overcoming obstacles—whether physical or emotional—to reach higher ground. It speaks to the power of perseverance, even when things seem uncertain or overwhelming. We all face challenges in life; this artwork serves as a reminder to keep pushing forward through any obstacle, no matter how difficult it may seem at first. The journey may be tough, but it leads us ever closer to something beautiful on the other side.

For me, Long Way Up represents hope in what often feels like hopeless situations—hope that we can continue striving for meaningful connections despite adversity. This abstract diptych celebrates resilience while acknowledging the complexities within relationships. Ultimately, it conveys not only my belief but also my wish for others: that through hard work and dedication, we may always find ourselves on “the long way up.”

If you’d like to purchase this artwork, please email me.