I created this canvas on the third Valentine’s Day after my husband’s death. I called it Empty Heart, though I hoped to imply that the emptiness might someday be filled again. Over time, I have learned that this hope is not just about finding another partner but about discovering who I am without one.

I used beautiful hand-silk-screened Japanese Chiyogami paper to define the space surrounding the blank heart shape, cutting another flower shape from a different Chiyogami paper that peeks into the blank space. The tiny scarlet heart resting on the tip of a leaf is one of the many sequins I used to sprinkle on our Valentine’s table during our celebrations together. It symbolizes the return of magical things, though in a different form. The white feather in the waiting space represents my hope for things to come.

I have renamed this piece “Seeking Heart” because, as I hoped, new things have come to fill my heart in different ways. I am experimenting with new techniques in art, maintaining and nurturing friendships and family ties, and fostering “outward” thinking to connect with others. I have invited a precious dog into my life. Nature whispers lessons to me as I walk and wonder. I am a blogger!

My hope is that every waiting heart opens to the gifts that come its way. Slowly but surely, may our hearts be filled once again.