Curtis Newkirk

Blue Flower

18"w x 18"h

Medium: Oil & Acrylic on Wood Panel

This painting was inspired by a quote from C.S. Lewis, suggesting that if we find ourselves with desires that nothing in this world can satisfy, we might have been made for another world. This idea resonates with me as I navigate life, carrying what often feels like multiple bags filled with desires, hopes, and dreams. Over time, these bags become heavier and sometimes burdensome. Thankfully in the midst of these, there is still beauty in the here and now. These glimpses of joy create in me a longing for an even greater wholeness and beauty. I am left joyful, but still wanting. This explains my depiction of the blue flower, which symbolizes spiritual longing.

Artist Bio

Curtis Newkirk Jr. is an artist from Northern Virginia who resides in Richmond. He graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University and has exhibited his work in numerous exhibitions, winning many awards throughout his career. His award-winning work has been showcased in numerous exhibitions, including the New American Paintings 2020 South Issue and the 2020 documentary The Builder. Recently, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts acquired one of his pieces. Curtis primarily uses oil and acrylic on wood to create deeply moving, dynamic, figurative paintings that communicate themes of freedom, dignity, courage, and conviction. Through his work, he aims to encourage everyone to think more about the experiences that build character, inspire hope, and ignite our imaginations, all contributing to a perpetual state of becoming more human.

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