THE HEIM WOMEN
-- a primal release painting

30" x 22"
Enamel & acrylic on watercolor paper
Original sold • limited edition prints available

“The Heim Women” is an expression that reflects a pivotal point in my life: embracing the essence of womanhood. The process that       I experienced in creating this painting is the catalyst that put into motion the eventual severing of unspoken collaborative ties with my (childhood) female care givers and elders.

Sometime in 1989 (I didn't record the month or day) I remember clearly the moment this painting was created. I was happily, joyfully painting until a telephone conversation left me stirred with anger. Usually I wouldn't paint being so filled with frustration and anger, however - I was guided to the studio by a force greater than I. Then, before my brain had any thing to say about what color to paint with, I found myself on the other side of a split second primal scream release. As I opened my eyes, I began to notice that my chest had expanded and I was able to feel big, full breaths fill my lungs, and      I see this profound piece of art work at my feet.

Within minutes of assimilating what the !$%^&!**!!&^! just happened,   I realized that the anger had vanished and an empowered sense of self filled that space that had been occupied for so many years with resentment, guilt, blame and anger. I also felt a new sense of giving myself permission to vent in a positive, safe, creative environment. Wow, wow, wow . . . a catharsis guided by Spirit. A gift of forgiveness to myself and the women in my family.

Every time I look at this painting I feel deeply grateful. For I am reminded that this is the first of many to come "expressions of opportunities" along life's way to heal myself and to bring forth, honor and enjoy my creativity, intelligence, playfulness, sensuality and spiritual understanding of God and my life purpose.

And most importantly, thanks Mom! for that telephone call.

Brenda Heim, 1989