This painting holds a lot of meaning for me, not only because it is my first self-portrait, but also because it represents the coming to a point of peace, acceptance, and freedom on the long and difficult road of rebuilding my life after multiple tragedies. Bajo el Sol means "under the sun" and is the name of a song by Joaco Teran that has become an anthem for me this year. His lyrics, which express joy and forward movement into the bright sunshine of a new day, really speak to me, and speak into this painting of myself, face towards the sun, just being present in the light and warmth and joy of today.
