What started as a now-and-then created photograph became so much more than a game of chess.
The years have rolled by from that original scene of a little girl playing a game of chess with her dad one Sunday morning. My inspiration to re-create that scene with me in it, had no more layers other than some symbolic connection to life’s choices and events… like moving chess pieces around the board. Though I felt so many more layers to this recreation the morning after, as I witnessed her stepping back and working her way through a true life challenging situation, how she turned it into something so great.
I could not be prouder and more in awe of her grace, true grit and determination, yet what makes me happier still, is that she feels this too.
J: “I actually did it”
Me: “I always knew you could. I’m so proud of you, you must be proud of yourself too”
J: “I am.”
Me: *lets a few happy tears of relief slip at today’s chosen chess move.
This is Artifact Motherhood; a collaboration of artists and mothers from around the world, who have come together to share our stories of the joys and struggles of our journey. Through our writings and visual records, we want to create memories that are more than photographs with dates written on the back. These are the artefacts we are leaving behind for our children and for generations to come.
Next up in the blog circle is the talented artist, Paige Rains
Such beautiful sentiments and words. I love that you made both of these photos that does feel very symbolic with the moving parts of motherhood and growing childhood.
Thank you Diana. I agree with the symbolism wholeheartedly, I just never expected this morning’s scenario would play into this also.
I love this so much. Being a mother is hard but I think sometimes we can forget that being a child is also very, very hard sometimes. It sounds like you’re doing an awesome job.
That is so true Paige, being a child is hard t times. Then we try and relearn the carefree parts as adults! Thank you.
I deeply admire your authenticity. Oh the layers of emotion, between past and present are moving. I could feel every word. Beautiful, Jo.
That means everything Hollie, thank you. Those layers keep rippling away don’t they!
Jo, I am so happy to come back in this circle and I am very moved by the words and this photo you re-created, the connections between past, present, the movements of life and people growing inside and out. I feel nostalgia as well as pride too. And oh and she looks so much like you !
Oh Jo, so symbolic and layered, and yet full of hope for both of your futures. Also feeling those happy tears of relief my lovely
Thank you Kirsty, we’re getting there! It’s funny how you walk passed things everyday then, pow, the memories.