'The Lone Journey'

Student Reflection

Inspired by the painting ‘Joseph and Mary with Baby Jesus Escape to Egypt’ by artist Henry Coller, my artwork captures the moment when a small, meager donkey is walking alone under a star filled night. He stops suddenly, seeing the glow of a luminescent star. He is in awe, unable to move, struck by its beauty and curious where it leads to?

The night sky is painted a rich, dark blue with specks of white to represent stars floating over the night sky. A majestic yellow acrylic star encourages and draws you to its radiance, lighting the way for the little donkey to follow. The earthy brown of the hills represent the harshness and isolation of the donkey's journey, whilst the vibrant, yellow road provides God’s comfort and safety for his journey.

The little donkey is full of curiosity and wonder, following the magnificent star to its unknown destination. As a young child, I had heard so many wonderful stories about my grandparents' childhood and life in Italy. This image reminded me of that long journey home to spend time with my Nonna and Nonno, just as the little donkey did, filled by faith, curiosity and wonder.