In the Giants & Pilgrims painting series is a piece called “Held”; a primary image of a woman curled-up surrounded by elements of earth and garden . Below is artist Betony Coons’ process pictures alongside some bits of story and meaning, giving why she created the piece.

From Betony:

I saved the creation of this piece for last. I think I was nervous about it. I don’t paint people very often, and I had a very clear picture of what I wanted.

I have had two miscarriages the last two years. Each were very difficult in their own way, but through the process, I discovered strength I didn’t know I had and felt “held” by those around me, mourning with us.

For me, this painting is my processing of those experiences. I knew I wanted to paint a curled up figure, in a sort of fetal position, but I didn’t want it to be sad. I wanted her to feel strong. The piece is about movement, history leading into new voyages and journeys forward. Water is portrayed as moving us towards the next adventure; holding on to the mystery and beauty of life.

My favorite part of the piece is the darkness in the center with the little flecks of gold leaf. To me, it speaks of this mystery and beauty.