Cityscape artist’s “Fairytale Journey” of hope that lead me to experience miracles and peace. This is a story that through painting rainbows I found a way to heal my past and experience joy.
It was one of the biggest adventures of my life. I had just got off the ferry to Lesvos Island, it was late, hot and I was watching my new friend pack up his car with exotic bags, bangles and all sorts of far eastern treasures to sell in his shop. Three old ladies were sitting on a bench watching us and they giggled as he struggled to fit all the boxes in the car. They cheekily asked, if they don’t all fit, do you take the girl or the boxes? He replied the girl which made my heart melt with joy. Needless to say I fell head over heals in love. It was his easy going nature, generosity and laughter that got me to the core. He was a soul mate, little did I know that they are the most challenging, rewarding and difficult relationships that you can encounter. As a result I ended up in Greek Orthodox Christian churches to find solace. When I walked in I was immediately engulfed in what felt like angel wings of peace. I could smell the love in the wood polish, gleaming gold icons and calm still atmosphere. I was intrigued.
As an artist I was used to embracing the unusual and could sense perhaps more than most. I had practiced meditation, new age spirituality, crystal healing, believed in angels, practiced yoga and leaned to chant from a variety of religions. These churches were different. There was a stillness which made me feel safe and secure, even though I was in a foreign land and nothing was familiar. In short my soul was home. I took delight in discovering the island and finding all sorts of churches on remote hilltops and tiny villages. I made local friends and regularly went to Taxiarchis in Mantamados which is dedicated to Archangel Michael. I believed in angels so just assumed this angel had brought me there to help me with my art. I was captivated with the icons and they sparked my imagination and desire to find out more about these pictures of heavenly people who adorned the walls of the churches.
Back in London
Two years later, after regular extended trips to the Greek island, I returned to live on the edge of London. I settled into London life, selling and painting. I got baptised and went to the local English Anglican church which was a new thing for me. I found a stability there and painted “Firm Foundation” to represent my new strength in God. I say I painted it, but all of my art is a gift as I don’t actually know how to paint, I just do it!
I would like to encourage you to paint or try something new as you never know what is possible until you try….
My Inner Sparkle
My magical journey continued as I found my inner sparkle after a heartache that nearly broke me. I actually re-worked “Fairytale Journey” into “Inner Sparkle” after visiting a Greek Orthodox monastery in the UK. Again I believe I was lead there, I kept finding articles online about this particular place and I went. During my visit it was explained that it was a monastery and I was welcome but it was suggested I find a local parish church. I sighed inside and prayed ok Lord I made a mistake, I respect you and the Abbott and will go on my way. The next week I got a call about some art, so I went to see their home, (see photos of the commissions “on the wall” https://www.sarasherwood.co.uk/on-the-wall/?v=79cba1185463 ) as I had met the client in the city, turned out it was in the road next to the monastery!
I have been going there ever since…..
I know I am now on a new journey as I have just been commissioned to paint another “Fairytale Journey” Looking forward to finding a new sparkle in my life and perhaps this is just part of telling my story and helping you to find your “Inner Sparkle”…..
If you want to start painting see my demos and videos page https://www.sarasherwood.co.uk/about/demos-videos-by-sara-sherwood-london-cityscape-art/?v=79cba1185463