Canvas Child

Imagine you're strolling down familiar streets in a familiar city, but then you turn a corner, and suddenly you find yourself face to face with the perfect little shop. How could you not have known about it before? This shop contains what you love best. Maybe it's old books. Musical instruments. Pottery or paintings or glassworks by local artists. Coffee or pastries or fine wine. Maybe there's a poetry reading or an impromptu concert or all of the above, but the point is what you feel -- the joy, the delight, the sense of wonder -- when you walk through the door. It's like finding buried treasure. 

It's like coming home.

Sometimes I'm wandering among familiar blogs, and a trusted friend provides a link. When I click it, I turn the corner and find myself face to face with a kindred. Has this beautiful soul been here all along and I never knew it?

That's how I felt the first time I crossed the threshhold into Emily Wierenga's world.

Emily is an artist, author, musician, journalist, and blogger. I'm not sure which speaks more deeply to me, her words or her paintings. Both are raw and real and beautiful.

She paints from somewhere deep inside . . .

images of faith,

family,

nature. And more.

Emily grew up as a missionary kid, and the African influence shows. When I look at her works, I feel like I'm glimpsing pieces of her heart.

You can browse Emily's paintings here. Not only can you purchase the originals (except for the many that have already sold), you can also purchase prints on canvas or photo paper, and 12-packs of cards. You definitely want to do this.

You also definitely want to wade into her words. Emily calls her blog "imperfect prose," not because the writing lacks luster, but because she often writes of the brokenness she sees in herself and the world around her, and she invites others to be equally honest. She handles words like her paintbrush, each stroke intentional, powerful, tender. Even when she makes me cry, I bless and thank her. 

Have you been in this city all this time and not yet found your way to Emily? Today I invite you to turn a corner and slip inside her world. You may discover you've come home. 

Jeanne Damoff loves turning corners and finding beauty. Have you discovered any kindred souls lately?

Comments

[Maureen E. Doallas]

L L and The High Calling were my first introduction to Emily and her work. She's terrific. I especially like her nature-inspired artwork; it just seems full of joy.

[Connie@raise your eyes]

Love that lady! Such a blessing to so many.

[Jennifer@GDWJ]

I, too, first met Emily through The High Calling. She is God-gifted, and always, always pointing to Her Maker, giving Him all the honor and glory.

I have in my home a painting by Emily. A couple months ago, I asked her if she would paint something for my husband and I to represent our faith journey. It's perfect. Not only is she an inspired artist, she's a delight to work with.

[Jeanne Damoff]

Isn't she amazing? I love her paintings so much. I haven't ordered any yet, but I plan to buy several for a grouping. The hard part is deciding which ones. I hadn't thought about commissioning one, Jennifer, but -- wow -- how awesome would that be? (The wheels on the brain bus go 'round and 'round . . .) Do you have a photo of yours? I'd love to see it.

I also want to buy some cards. I like to keep beautiful cards on hand, and I don't think I'll come across any I'd love or enjoy sending more than hers. Again, the problem is narrowing down the choice(s).

People like Emily remind me that there is beauty (and brokenness) all around me. She makes me want to see better. To love better. Truly, she's a gift.

Thanks for your comments, friends. Much love to you.

[imperfect prose]

oh, i am crying... this was so touching to read, and really very humbling. thank you beautiful jeanne. so much love, e.

[Patricia (Pollywog Creek)]

I know I'm going deep when I visit Emily's blog, and I always leave there changed - for the better.

Much like visiting you.

XOX

[Nancy]

I don't remember how I first found my way to emily's place, but I'm so grateful I did. Hers is like that gracious,comfortable neighborhood coffee shop offering rich food for eyes, heart, and soul. I've met some of the loveliest folks there. Thanks for highlighting her and her work here. Blessings.

[Bethany Ann]

i KNOW that girl!! ;)

[Sheila Moore]

I found emily through her Thursday Imperfect Prose meme and I love it and I also love her paintings (had my husband buy one for me on my last b-day :)

[Kathleen]

iLike. :)

[deb]

beaming, I'm absolutely beaming. Em is so dear to me.
I am not surprised you are floored by her .
Her art graces my home as well, a painting she did for my wedding anniversary.
I "found " her via Ann V, and will never let her out of my heart. Never.

[Heather]

Indeed, how have I not met Emily before? Thank you for introducing her work to me.