Welcome to a new feature on my blog! Shining a spotlight on some of the radiant and fascinating souls who have collected original art pieces of mine.

Trajectory and Possibility

Despite their treasury of original art and rare posters, Ashton and Creighton Chandler never thought of themselves as “art collectors”. Instead, they have simply sought to create a beautiful home that reflects their souls. Creighton, Director of University Ministries at Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU) in San Antonio, Texas says the art in their home “speaks to their life trajectory,” and reflects their ongoing growth as individuals.

They both agree there is no reason to bring anything into their home unless it adds beauty. Creighton wants an artwork to call him to “somewhere different” otherwise, he says, “they don’t need it.”

Ashton, a high school crisis intervention counselor and incredible urban photographer believes there is a difference between art that is merely decorative and fine art. She says fine art “speaks to your soul.” They both appreciate art as a spiritual reprieve from mass produced goods and decor.

Creighton connected with the painting, “Giraffe Under the Moon” during my interactive art and storytelling show Awaken to Your Life as a Spiritual Journey at OLLU in November 2018. Months later a graduating student who worked with Creighton in University Ministries contacted me to purchase the painting as a gift for him.

She said he was a “great boss” and that he was still talking about the personal symbolism of the painting for himself, so she knew he would love it.

Around the same time, Ashton was moved to acquire the painting “Sea of Joy”. She says she was initially attracted by the colors and it’s “tie with nature.” She and Creighton also enjoyed knowing the story behind the painting’s creation: how it evolved through several landscapes from beach, to dessert to diluvial. For them, this is a reminder of the tides and changes of life.

The couple took their time finding the right place to display their paintings. They knew the two “belonged together.” Eventually they determined the perfect spot for the pieces to compliment the quality of life they seek to create in their home. The paintings rest at different levels on a wall in their study. The choice to display them at different levels was intentional; to create an endless sense of surprise and discovery.

I’m humbled and honored that“Giraffe Under the Moon” and “Sea of Joy” continue to inspire contemplation and awakening for this insightful, creative and kind couple!

Check out Ashton’s stunning photography on Instagram at: @rock_the_ashbah or click here.