A few months ago, a talented artist named Valory Canfield reached out to me asking if she could paint my Prickly Pear Jam cover quilt into a painting. Valory lives in Alaska and paints colorful works full of the state's native wildlife and images of motherhood. At the time, I didn't know what the subject of this quilt painting would be, but I was completely flattered and sent her some photos of my Prickly Pear Jam.
Over the following weeks, Valory shared the progress of this painting on her Instagram page. I could tell from the very first sketches that it was going to be beautiful. It was amazing to see the sketch transform into a vibrant and touching painting. Every time Valory shared a new photo or video, I was blown away by her skill.
Just a few days before Mother's Day, I received a framed canvas print from Valory of the finished piece. I am not exaggerating when I say that I was in awe. I was shocked to see how gorgeous the piece is in real life.
The painting is titled Goodnight, Good Morning and depicts a mom sleeping in a bed with her two children. The bed is in the forest and the family is surrounded by gentle forest animals, many of which are also tending their young. Laying across the bed, warming the mother and children, is the Prickly Pear Jam quilt. It's beautiful and emotional and so, so special.
The fact that it arrived just before Mother's Day was the cherry on top. My kids were immediately drawn to it. I have three young children, blondies like those in the painting. My youngest very quickly declared that the two children sleeping with the mom are her brother and sister and that she's in the painting too, still in Mommy's tummy.
The fact that Valory chose to put my quilt in her painting is a wonderful gesture of artist supporting artist. I am genuinely touched and grateful. I am sure that this piece will be a family heirloom, passed down through generations, just like the quilt it features.
Visit Valory's website and Instagram to view this and all her beautiful artwork, and maybe purchase a piece for your own collection!
Get the Prickly Pear Jam pattern to make your own quilt to be snuggled and loved!
1 comment
This is incredible. Two beautiful talents being shared/combined. My eyes filled with tears when I read, “My youngest very quickly declared that the two children sleeping with the mom are her brother and sister and that she’s in the painting too, still in Mommy’s tummy.”
Simply beautiful quilt and painting.
Thanks for sharing.