Can art heal a broken heart . . .

She walked into my booth at a show this spring, and I was so happy to see her. But she was alone, without her husband, who had followed my art for about a year. They had come to several of my shows together. He was especially drawn to one of my pieces and had talked with me at length about my work. He was waiting for that one special piece that truly spoke to him. 

So, I was caught off guard to see her by herself. We hugged, and with tears in her eyes, she told me her husband had passed away unexpectedly about six months earlier. My own tears began to flow as I held her close. She explained that she had come to purchase several pieces that would remind her of him and bring her comfort as she moved through her grief. She also chose smaller pieces for each of her adult children as keepsakes in memory of their dad. Together, we created a beautiful collection of art for her and her family.  

Once again, I was reminded of the power of art to bring healing and hope when it’s needed most. My wish is that every time she catches a glimpse of those pieces, she feels surrounded by tender memories of her husband and their life together. My art may not be able to heal her broken heart, but I hope it brings moments of comfort, joy, and peace along her journey through grief.