I made this portrait painting “Choices” 50x60cm, oil on wood to visually tell the story of courage and tenacity it requires to choose a life in the arts. It’s a bold and precarious choice to make. Fellow artist Stephanie Johnson, who sat for the painting, is about to swallow a large, red, paint tube shaped pill not unlike the concept in the film “The Matrix”. This pill is big and quite dangerous. She may choke. Her determined gaze looks to the future. In the company of artists I am often impressed with the bravery this life choice requires. I also now recognize it in myself. The viewer of this painting is reminded of their own strength and resilience. I am reminded of my own.