Embracing Nostalgia and Strength: The Story Behind “Protector”
There are moments in life that feel like a golden August evening, where time slows down, the crickets are chirping, and the world is bathed in a warm, nostalgic glow. That’s the feeling I wanted to capture in my latest artwork, “Protector.”
I first heard the song that inspired Protector when Beyoncé released the Cowboy Carter album, and it instantly became my favorite—an emotionally resonant song that felt like a reflection of my own heart. The lyrics spoke of love, resilience, and the quiet strength found in the bonds of family. The imagery of marigolds, garden rivers, and golden summer evenings resonated with me deeply.
“There I was tangled up in marigolds, listening to the reverend children singing, humming low as the garden river flows while the August light comes a golden evenin'.”
“An apricot picked right off the giving tree, I gave water to the soil and now it feeds me. And there you are, shaded underneath it all, I feel proud of who I am because you need me.”
These lines paint a vivid picture of a nurturing, serene world, and I wanted to translate that into my artwork. “Protector” is my tribute to the divine feminine, the nurturing power of motherhood, and the comforting embrace of family. The piece features soft golden hues, gentle lines, and a sense of movement that evokes a breezy summer night.
I created Protector last month, and attending the opening night of the Cowboy Carter tour in Los Angeles was a full-circle moment. Hearing the song live under the stars brought the artwork to life in a whole new way.
I’m excited to share that I’m offering a limited edition run of giclée prints of “Protector.” Each print is made on archival paper to preserve its warmth and detail. The prints are available in 8x12 and 16x24, offering beautiful options for your home, studio, or collection.
Click here to view and order your print of Protector.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of art, music, and memory. I hope “Protector” brings a touch of that golden summer evening into your life.
