This piece is based off of a photograph taken by my grandfather. My grandpa is named Art Ryder, and he is a big inspiration to me in the way I go about my life. He lives in Maine on an Island called Chebeague where his father and grandfather spent lots of time. He continues the family tradition of working on the land; he works on a farm, lives on a sailboat, surfs, and bikes all around the island. He sends me photos of the most beautiful sunsets and sunrises, and I always love to paint them. It helps me feel connected to him and the island that means so much to my family, and it allows me to feel like I am seeing the sunset right there with him. I called this painting “Breathe” because whenever I look at it, I am reminded to take a deep breath and think about the world beyond school and beyond myself. Thank you, and enjoy!
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