Title: Undone

Now that I'm retired from being a school principal, I finally have time to dive headfirst into painting, this is something I've always loved but never had enough time for. Undone came from one of those quiet little moments that just stuck with me. You know those red Converse sneakers that have seen some serious miles? That's what this painting is all about a pair sitting there with ankles crossed, laces undone, like someone just finished a really good walk and decided to take a breather.

There's something so satisfying about that moment when you slow down, kick back, and just breathe. That's the feeling I was going for here. It's about those simple pleasures we sometimes forget to notice like taking a walk through your favorite spot, feeling the rhythm of your own footsteps, following a path you know by heart.

Red Converse are pretty special, aren't they? They're like this universal thing that spans generations. Show someone a pair and watch their face light up, suddenly they're remembering their own sneakers, or summer adventures, or just feeling young and free again. That's exactly what I'm hoping this painting does. I want people to see it and feel that warm, familiar connection to the simple joy of walking, pausing, and being part of their community.

It's funny how a beat-up pair of shoes can hold so many good memories.