“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Laozi

When I think of creating a painting it’s not always at the forefront of my mind that the painting is a culmination of life experiences that started with a “single step”. The creators story may not be evident on the surface or at first glance, but I believe it can be felt through the brushwork, colors and choice of subject that contribute to the artist overall aesthetic.

It’s been meaningful to me, to look back over my paintings as time has passed and notice the tendency I have toward vintage items as part the still life arrangements I create. This wasn’t a conscious choice at the onset, but one of making use of what I had around so that I could continue painting.

Antiques have always fascinated me. The artisan nature of items that have survived the test of time are special. They often bring back the concepts of “craft” and “handmade” which carry a personal involvement. Skill, tradition and character that develop over time in well worn or used things handed down through generations adds to their uniqueness.

In Ornament of Tales – these parts of history and tradition continue to present themselves as I aimed to a creative aspects of winter through a still-life painting. How I envisioned it is as follows:

• The decorative terracotta urn, found at a thrift store was most exciting! It reflected a sense of tradition, craft and time as well as an earthy and primitive nature. As to whether or not it’s vintage – I don’t know. It just felt special! As I developed the arrangement further I wanted to add some plant life reflective of non-deciduous winter trees for their green color and sense of life. Set in a glass canning jar of clear water a texture and richness was layered in as part of the visual story. In the foreground I laid a piece of decorative tissue on my table as I reflected on this motif I began to see it becoming a suggestion of winter snow.

This painting, to me, is a quiet reflection on the beauty of winter’s presence—its ability to remind us of resilience, warmth, and the stories embedded in the objects and elements around us. Through the earthy terracotta, the lush greenery, and the delicate suggestion of snow, Ornament of Tales brings together fragments of history, nature, and imagination.

I hope this piece invites you to pause and notice the meaningful layers in your own surroundings—the ways the past and present intertwine. Please feel free to share your experience in the comments.

Styling Tips for “Ornament of Tales”

• A Warm and Inviting Setting: This piece shines This piece shines in spaces with warm, earthy tones like terracotta, beige, olive green, and muted blues. It complements natural wood furniture, woven textiles, or a vintage rug, creating a cozy and grounded atmosphere.

• Pair with Natural and Textural Accents: Enhance the painting’s connection to nature by styling it alongside decorative elements like potted plants, dried foliage, or objects with organic textures—think ceramic vases, stone bowls, or woven baskets. These details amplify the earthy, timeless feel of the artwork.

• A Nook with Personality: Hang Ornament of Tales in a reading nook, dining area, or entryway where vintage and modern styles mix harmoniously. Pair it with a small collection of books, a vintage lamp, or a patterned throw. A soft, neutral wall color (like cream or a light greige) can make the painting’s details pop while maintaining a serene aesthetic.

If you enjoyed learning about the inspiration behind Ornament of Tales, you might also like this ASMR video where I explore the sounds of nature and bring them into the studio. Watch it here.

Categories: Nature, New Paintings, Still LifeTags: art inspired by tradition, artistic expressions, collectible oil painting, connecting to the earth, earthtones in art, oil painting, still-life painting, vintage aesthetic, winter inspired art