31 Paintings in 31 Days - Day Twenty-Nine

"Gorilla, Emerging" - watercolor and ink on paper, 12" x 9"

On day 29, I am faced with a gorilla.

Ever wonder what you would do if you were face to face with one?  As a kid, I would imagine all kinds of terrifying survival scenarios and try to figure out how I could get out of them.  Especially at the zoo.  The animals are so close, I wondered sometimes if they would really like to reach through the barrier and just slap somebody...you know, like "what were you thinking, putting me in here? Now have some sense and get me out!"  Of course, I have never actually had to survive an encounter with a gorilla.  And perhaps it would go well anyway. A Jane Goodall moment, maybe?

Gorillas aren't exactly cute (like hedgehogs or sugar gliders), but they are fascinating, noble creatures with intelligence, family, community and human-like characteristics that make them particularly interesting.   Though my kids had a robotic ape some years ago that was quite creepy, it was so lifelike and human-ish.  Who designs toys like that?  But I digress.

So what could a gorilla mean for me today?  Immense power!  Your full potential!  Nothing is too hard to handle, you are the gorilla!  That sounds like a way to begin any day, putting on some gorilla power.  Intelligent and creative problem solver  - channel gorilla power when you want practical solutions to life's challenges.  Life is plenty challenging, but I suppose I do have some gorilla energy there, as I tend to tackle problems head-on.  Leadership, personal presence and responsibility.  Hey, wait a minute...I am not running for president, here!   If a gorilla is your animal totem, it is a sign that your endeavors are solid and steady, you are grounded and on firm footing.  Ahhhhh, I have been working on feeling grounded and centered.  That sounds just right.

For today, the power and firm footing of the gorilla.  Just what I need to bring with me to a portraiture painting class I am taking tonight with Emily Andress!  It is a new endeavor, and I will enter it feeling confident.

This piece is available.  Currently unframed.  Inquiries: imajenation@gmail.com