Finding Meaning in a Pastel Painting

We're Not in Kansas Anymore
Karen F. Rose, pastel 2008

Google reminded me that today marks the 71 anniversary of the movie classic The Wizard of Oz.  Two years ago I created this pastel "We're Not in Kansas Anymore".  When it was on display at Sante Fe College President's Gallery in Gainesville FL, several people shared with me fond memories the painting brought back, of being a small child sitting close to their parents while watching the movie, holding tight to their parent's hands when "scary things happened".
Others felt there was a deeper meaning in my painting, in the depiction of the subject matter, the composition and use of color. Perhaps this was a tale of fearful current events?
In a previous post, I talked about what inspired me to create the painting.
All art is open to interpretation. Volunteering as a docent at the Harn Museum of Art and hearing visitors express the meaning they found in the artwork was always so enriching. Each person's view of art is a unique perspective, colored by their own knowledge and life experiences.
After 71 years, much has been written about the Wizard of Oz. If you are an Oz fan, this article may interest you. Wizard

Landscape Painting in Gainesville, FL Remembering the Light

 I guess you could call Twilight Shadow Homecoming a landscape painting of a house in Gainesville.  But to me, it's more about home - a warm welcome, a happiness at day's end.  Someone is on the the porch watching the dance of light and shadow as the tree branches sway in the breeze. Soon the porch light will illuminate the yard and fireflies will compete for the evening glow.