Lead with Love not Fear

Oil on board
12x12 with black floater frame. Wired and ready to hang.
 
I'm inspired by many things; nature, music, sports, books, family, inspirational quotes, and yes, I've become a podcast and audible book junkie too!   All of these tiny pieces find their way into my art.
 
When I get excited to paint an image, it's a gut feeling, so I go with it.  The creative process takes me on a sea-saw journey of ups and downs, as I weave together each brush stroke to create a piece.
 
The name of the piece becomes clearer as the painting gets close to its final stage.  It usually comes to me when I'm listening to music, and I get that overwhelming feeling of being transported to another place and time -  letting the memory banks flood open.  It's probably my favorite part of the process.
 
This painting had a hidden message, that I didn't "see" until I was almost finished.  I was adding the final brush strokes, when I spotted a tiny little heart at the base of this robin's chest.  I was delighted and inspired!  How did that happen?!?!?!
 
So ironic that my MOST favorite inspirational quote  (that I must say to myself at least 5 times a day) is, Lead with Love not Fear.  And now it's this painting's name.
 
How appropriate for this stoic little being to be so poised; balancing on those tiny legs, chest open to the world.
 
Its January 2021.  A new year, a clean slate.  I know how I'm going to lead💕