This painting tells the story of a young woman living on the streets, playing her guitar for tips. Her camouflage jacket, carefully placed beside her, suggests a past in service—perhaps as a veteran. That quiet detail moved me deeply. I hold immense respect for those who have served our country, and I was compelled to honor her story in the only way I knew how—through art.

I chose pastels for this piece because they offer both emotional intensity and nuance. The medium allowed me to capture the vivid reds of her shirt and the striking hue of her backpack, set starkly against the muted, gritty tones of the urban pavement. The contrast felt essential—her vivid presence against a backdrop of hardship. She exudes a kind of raw, physical strength, even as her circumstances speak to vulnerability.

Unlike my usual smaller works, I rendered this painting on a larger scale. Her story, her quiet dignity, demanded it. It’s a portrait not just of a moment, but of resilience—of someone whose strength survives in the face of uncertainty. For collectors who are drawn to the beauty of endurance, this piece stands as a tribute to the human spirit—unyielding, unseen, and deeply powerful.

This painting is also available in high-quality prints. A portion of the sale of this print will go to assisting the homeless in Portland, Maine.