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Some paintings come from a place of deep introspection, while others seem to arrive like a joyful whisper, urging us to embrace something bigger than ourselves. Rise Above is one of those pieces—a simple yet profound exploration of freedom, lightness, and the exhilarating feeling of breaking away from limitations.

The Inspiration Behind the Painting
When I created Rise Above, I imagined a moment of pure release—a soul unbound, rising effortlessly beyond the world's weight. The figure, joyful and serene, drifts upward, untethered by gravity, expectations, or fear. Their expression isn't one of struggle or resistance but of peace, as if the journey was always meant to happen this way.

Life constantly hands us challenges, doubts, and responsibilities that pull us down. But what if, even for a moment, we could let go of those burdens? What if we could rise above the noise, the worries, and the expectations, floating freely toward something unknown but beautiful?

Symbolism and Artistic Choices
The earth, painted in soft blues and greens, represents our familiar world—grounded, tangible, and full of complexities. Yet, the figure isn't tied to it. Instead, they ascend effortlessly, propelled by something unseen but deeply felt.

Their body is relaxed, arms reaching forward in quiet determination. The upward motion is subtle but undeniable, suggesting that the power to rise above doesn't come from force but surrender.

The soft watercolor-like background enhances this sense of weightlessness, making the figure seem to dissolve into the sky itself—becoming part of something greater than themselves.

What Rise Above Means to Me—And You
This painting represents resilience, freedom, and the beauty of release. It's about overcoming struggles—not through battle, but by letting go.

Maybe it's about moving beyond self-doubt. Perhaps it's about embracing change. Maybe it's simply about allowing yourself to be happy, no matter what's happening on the ground below.

But art is a conversation, and Rise Above doesn't have just one meaning. What does it say to you?

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Comment below or contact me—what does Rise Above make you feel?

Prints are available in my store if this piece speaks to you.

Thank you for sharing this moment with me.