30 Paintings in 30 days - The Halfway Point!

"Bull - A Study" - watercolor on paper, 8 x 10

"Conley's Close-Up" - acrylic on cradled board, 12 x 6 x 1.5.  Ready to hang.

Private commission.

My bovine obsession continues.

Luckily for me, a sweet collector commissioned a painting of a bull she encountered during her recent stay in Ireland, so I was able to spend more time with one of these soulful creatures in the studio.  This one is a strong but elusive male with massive horns.  Shaggy and adorable.

But it got me to wondering...what does the bull symbolize?  A symbol of power, virility and physical strength, the bull is a spirit sign you definitely want the positive aspects of in your life.  Celtic legend hold the bull as a symbol of luxury and wealth (and who couldn't use a little more of that?) and leads to easier, more abundant times in life.

Of course, the bull also stands for stubbornness and strong-mindedness (I know a few "bullheaded" people), but I think this can be a real positive when called upon in the right situation.  Sometimes we have to dig in an hold firm in the face of opposition.  

In Native American medicine lore, the bull asks you to gather your strength, mental and physical, during tough times.  But the bull also encourages you to look around you - there is something in your space which has the potential to create abundance for you.  Perhaps a talent or connection you have overlooked or forgotten about.

The bull also represents the ability to see into past lives.  He offers insight and healing for previous life journeys, and the ability to call on past experience to create a better future.  

As Conley was emerging on the board this week, I got a little sense of his stubbornness, but also the wisdom and calm strength he exudes.  He is the perfect energy for the halfway point in this 30 day painting marathon.  It was a delight to spend time with this big lug, and I am so thrilled that he is going to a loving, spirit-centered home. Hooray!