Beyond the Bliss (6 x 9)

I had a friend in high school who argued that "Using reference or copying a reference photo is not art." I've battled with this statement for years, and it discouraged me from ever picking up a pencil (to draw) ever again. 

Fast forward to 2025, I challenged myself to develop my own art style. I've prayed and almost cried trying to finish this painting because I was struggling to even start a sketch. I had no idea where to start.

I went to Pinterest and started getting hot air balloons on my page; this catapulted my memory back to when I was a child. I would imagine what heaven might look like. It's bright. Colourful. And there’s childlike innocence.

I also wrestled with naming this painting "Beyond the Firmament," but I decided not to use it for two reasons. One, I did not want to misrepresent what heaven looks like. I've never been there…yet. Hopefully, one day I'll get there. And most importantly, Jesus is not in this painting because I don’t know what He looks like. So I’ll reserve that title until the day I meet Him, and I can include Him in this painting. 

I didn’t want to add this painting to my store, but I realized that it’s the most fitting. This is probably the first time I let go of my perfectionism and just allowed myself to enjoy painting from memory without using a direct reference, just inspiration. That’s also why the banner of Project Reen is this. I am proud of this painting. 

Description:

6" x 9"

Soft touch finish 

16pt (350gsm) paper

Includes 3 Paper Adhesive Stickers: 

🌸 Hot Air Balloon Sticker (2" x 3")

🌸 Mailbox Sticker (2" x 3")

🌸 "The Same Hands that Created the Skies...are the Same Hands that Created You and  I" Sticker (2" x 3")