We have our first artist submission for Significant Journey bags. Here is their artwork and their stories. If you would like to see these designs on our bags join the community and cast your vote. Please make sure to leave your email address and we will let you know when they are available for purchase.

For Always

I created this image from my original painting that I named For Always.  It's a celebration of love.  Your loved one may or may not be with you but for always they will be in your heart and mind.

- shawnaerbackstudios

Faith (This too Shall Pass)

This design ‘showed up’ in a sketchbook during a challenging period in my life. At that time, no obvious solution appeared to be forthcoming, and coping included the constant reminder that “this too shall pass” – that nothing was permanent, and to have faith that things would change.

The design shows two opposing states of feeling by the same individual. The tearful, ashen figure on the left is struggling with sadness and personal pain. In despair, she clutches to a heavy heart. This is out of self-love and concern, in light of the uncertainty she has to live with. The lines are doubled up to equal seven sections, like seven bands in a rainbow. ‘Rainbow-weather conditions’ indicate that clearing is only a matter of time, that sunlight is present, and that ‘the rain will pass’ …

The top center area connects the two states. It transitions from fear to healing. There is a river of tears. Tears, which release and expose pain. The sun, although not overly obvious, is immediately behind. Just peeking, it is slowing rising.

The rays of the sun radiate around the figure on the right. In a happier state, she is more upright than her left counterpart. Her heart is brighter; her tears are not of sadness, but of joy. The remaining lines no longer amount to seven. Only two are left, and they are positioned at the bottom (on their way out).

Reds were used for passion and intensity. Deeper ones, ‘purple-reds’ … express deep hurt and despair and transition to brighter reds, to joy.  The pink bands are neither dark nor light – a saturated value, a combination, like rain and sun.

Although this design originated several years ago during that challenging period, it has also been recently modified for a quilt design. A quilt to place over one’s shoulders, to create a warm, safe, cozy place. A quiet moment in a ‘cocoon’ of sorts. A reminder that “this too shall pass. A reminder that even if you are doubtful and no solution appears to be available to you, to keep the FAITH – all will pass.

-Maria B.