Saint Joan of Arc -Original Watercolor Painting
Ste. Jean d'Arc
A Year of Saints: Created as part of the A Year of Saints Collection. Learn more about this collection and the outlook that shaped my process HERE.
Details: An original painting, unframed, 8x9 inches, pencil outline layered in high quality watercolor pigments on cold-pressed (textured) paper. Artist's signature is clearly visible in fine-tipped brown art pen.
Watercolor paintings develop layer by layer until the portrait comes into focus — glowing and delicate. This particular palette is elegant and simple, true to her French heritage.
St. Joan is portrayed in a moment of struggle and uncertainty, the moment before she would fiercely look up in a familiar pose. She underwent so much suffering, ridicule, and isolation for her country and faith, even to her martyrdom on foreign soil. There is beauty and strength in those moments too.
Inspiration: With prayer and research, I try to discover what each saint is "saying" on their feast day by discerning elements that strike me most particularly...
What struck me the most about St. Joan of Arc was her isolation as a woman among men. That must have been a predominant cross for her to bear... There was no one who understood her femininity, and through it all she always trusted in God's plan for her.
She didn't worry about whether her mission "felt right" or "suited her talents" or state in life or gender. She just obeyed, and God did great things through her.
Framing: I imagine this painting matted or floating over a mat in a neutral white or cream color to accentuate the delicate palette and best showcase the portrait. I'd set it in a frame that complements your home’s aesthetic, in a light-colored wood or simple, thin metalic.
More information on how to best preserve and frame your artwork will come with your painting shippment. Please feel free to email me at rosalie.ardentdraws@gmail.com with any other questions!
