This cloud formation appeared over my home like an incredible symbol of hope. I photographed it, planned on making a painting of it, then not too long later, my hometown of Asheville, NC was hit by Hurricane Helene. The devastation was horrific - whole sections of town were washed away. We had no power, water, internet or cell service so it was difficult to get any news or check in with friends and family. Right in the middle of that, I set up my easel outside on my porch and pulled out this photograph to work from because it was exactly what I needed. The sounds of helicopters and sirens mingled with the sounds of songbirds as I painted. As I worked, and focused on the light coming from behind the clouds, I could feel hope returning. That first painting was named "Finding Hope". It was small, only 12x16, so I was eager to paint it larger once I could get back into my studio. Ten weeks after Helene struck, I completed this larger version and named it "Finding Hope Again".
