Artist: Megan Welker
Titles:
“Mother and I” (Watercolor, Gouache and Acrylic paint with cold wax finish)
About: My mother and I would often go to the beach when I was a young girl. This particular night I painted, the first painting of this “Living Waters” series-I was feeling a little bit down and out and missing those moments. I live in the Tucson desert of beautiful Arizona which I love! But every now and then this desert girl misses the ocean (and her mother) Painting the ocean was a small way I could take a much needed visit to the ocean that night as I once did as a young girl, just Mother and I.
“Out of the Blue” (Watercolor and gouache with cold wax finish)
About: The next painting in this series-depicts some of the strong emotions I was feeling as a mother and all the ways I seemingly fall short. Am I good enough, why don’t I enjoy this more-I should, I’m supposed to do this, what am I doing wrong, how come I can’t?….you get the idea. These thoughts were flooding and it wasn’t until I had a pivotal day where I realized that it was okay to be having those feelings, I would get through them. The Savior was mindful of my feelings and he blessed me with a tender mercy the following day after I had been feeling down with a beautiful monsoon. This monsoon day inspired my entire collection as I was reminded what “Living Waters” can do for us. Similar to the desert, the Savior gives us life, hope and a renewed sense of self. I’m so grateful for the Savior in my life.
“Monsoon” (Watercolor and Gouache with cold wax finish)
About: Best time of the year. There is something so calming as watching a monsoon happen right before your eyes. What a reminder of Living Waters and what they can do for even our driest desert. When’s the last time you had your monsoon? The thing is, it’s waiting for us whenever we’re ready. The Lord blesses us with so much. Sometimes we just have to take an extra look around but we will find it if we do.
“Cactus Tears” (Watercolor and Gouache with cold wax finish)
About: Rainfall on Cacti. A beautiful sight in the desert. “…If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink…” John 7:37
“New Life” (Watercolor and Gouache with cold wax finish)
About: I absolutely love seeing the desert after some good monsoons. It goes from the brown of the summer to green everywhere. Rehydrated, vibrant and full of life. The desert is a beautiful place and new life sprouts everywhere. I love the symbolism with Living Waters and what they can do for our soul. Like the monsoons in the desert, they can rejuvenate and bring new life.
“Promises” (Watercolor and Gouache with cold wax finish)
About: This may be my favorite part of monsoons. The beautiful sky filled with thunder and lightning and pouring rain-only to be followed by the beautiful promise of a rainbow. Such a wonderful reminder of our Heavenly Fathers promises and gifts to us.
“Living Waters” (Watercolor and Gouache with cold wax finish)
About: “Come, my brethren, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters; and he that hath no money, come buy and eat; yea, come buy wine and milk without money and without price.“ -2 Nephi 9:50
About the Artist: Hello! I’m Megan Welker, a desert gal who loves the ocean. Four kiddos and a husband keep me busy in the best ways and when I find extra time, I like to create! Creating art is the best therapy and I’m grateful to share it with you all. It’s also a way I can share what is nearest to my heart. Stay in touch through instagram @ahintofpixiedustpaints to see what I’m working on next. Come say hello, I’d be happy to meet you! I’m always excited for what’s in store ahead. You never know where the future may lead! I have had the opportunity to create watercolors, gouaches, murals and a childrens book and can’t wait to see what is next. Have a wonderful time!