Theodora Miller, Perseverance II, gouache and acrylic on handmade organic paper with deckled edges, 9 x 12 inches.
“I need to detach myself from the heaviness that I feel. I start with handmade paper, the prettiest kind that you save for a really special project — today, that project is me.”
“I start by brushing solid blocks of color with gouache paint. As they dry, I get lost in research about Greek poets (connecting with my heritage makes me feel brave). I search for wise words for modern times. When I find the one that speaks to my heart, I memorize it and paint the words in the language of my ancestors, over and over in a meditative rhythm. My breath slows. My mind stops racing. For a moment I feel peace and hope.”
— Theodora Miller (Richmond, VA)