Art with a Story

They say a picture is worth a thousand words. In this case, it's a painting, and it tells a story that is near and dear to our hearts.

We asked our friend Anna to create something for us, and didn't provide many specifics. We wanted it to have something to do with adoption, and at one point we had talked about the colors of Ukraine's flag (yellow & blue).

We were already familiar with Anna's work so we knew whatever she did would be good. But when we picked it up on Sunday afternoon, we were amazed. It is incredible how an artist can take a request and make it into something so personal and, in my opinion, powerful. That is exactly the case with this piece. I also think when it is an artist that knows you well, the depth and power is even greater.

It really does say a lot about us.

It shows the boys' interests. And their individual background colors reflect their Ukrainian heritage.

Daniel, the artist

William, the athlete

The red at the top reminds me that it all started with a love story :) And the rainbow reminds me of promises: from God to us, from us to God, in our marriage, and within our family.

I think the use of color symbolizes a lot as well. The colors are beautiful on their own. But their real beauty is seen when they come together. Kind of like our family: each of us holds gifts and talents that become more when we come together.

We are so excited about the way this turned out. As Anna pointed out, someone that didn't know us would simply see it as a piece of art. But those that know us can see that it tells so much more!