Abell to Art: Impressionist Paintings

Finding Inspiration and the Art of Reinvention

Imagine you have at long last retired from a lengthy career. As an empty nester you no longer feel the suburban home meets your needs. What would you do if given the opportunity to live as you choose? Would you really make such a change?

A friend of mine embraced such a situation with real gusto recently. Very inspirational, all things considered.

Artists are always seeking inspiration for that next work. As a nature-inspired painter, it isn't hard for me to find. In this instance, it was the background story in addition to the surroundings that were particularly compelling.

After retiring from a long career as an university administrator, my friend jumped at the the chance to relive her childhood dream. That is, she bought the farm-literally. The best part is her "little bit of heaven" came complete with a horse, donkey, barn, and pasture.  It was inspiring to hear the excitement in her voice during each stage of the process of finding and purchasing her farm. When an initial deal fell through, she was undaunted and resumed the search with her realtor. At long last, the new rural adventure began, and was  embraced completely.

I paid a visit to the little homestead not long ago to meet the horse and donkey with such definitive personalities I had heard so much about.  When I asked if she had grown up on a farm, she recanted early experiences of visiting her grandfather's farm.  It seems those lifelong dreams had at last been realized, complete with two new furry friends.

Second phases of life do bring fulfillment and offer much inspiration. Just being receptive to new opportunities is the key. Being willing to accept new challenges has its own reward. Case in point-my friend has fully embraced the country life by even beginning horseback riding lessons in retirement. How exciting!

My visit inspired the painting featured.  Actually, I can't wait to visit my new friends again soon for even more inspiration. Perhaps they will even agree to sit for individual portrait painting sessions next. :)

*The unfettered rural countryside in Georgia was the inspiration for this original acrylic painting on canvas. Call it horse sense (or donkey) if you like, this painting featuring "best buddies" might remind you of visiting a favorite farm. Suitable for that home office if you need an occasional nudging to knock off work early to join your animals and enjoy the great outdoors.

*Original has sold, but available as prints. #rural #landscapepainting