The Search for Belonging

Mixed media on canvas. Acrylics and Oils. 30 x 40 inches. 

In the painting, a woman and a vibrant macaw gaze up at planet Earth, focusing on the USA and South America. The macaw, which originates from South America, symbolizes the feeling of being far from home. The woman, representing me, conveys a deep sense of longing. My heart is tethered to my son, daughter-in-law, and three grandchildren who live in Oregon, a place that sometimes feels so distant from me.

As a migrant who moved from Finland to Australia with my parents at the tender age of two and a half, I grew up navigating two cultures: the Australian society around me and the Finnish traditions at home. We cherished Finnish foods, spoke our native language, and formed close ties with other Finnish families in our community. Throughout my life, I’ve been on a quest for belonging, often feeling the weight of distance from my extended family scattered across Finland, the USA, and Canada.

This painting captures my quest for belonging, reminding us that true belonging comes from within. The bright and bold colors reflect the vibrancy of life, while the expression on the woman's face speaks to the universal desire to belong we all share. I invite you to consider your own journey: What does belonging mean to you? Is it tied to a specific place, or is it found in the connections we make with others?

Let this artwork not just tell my story, but also resonate with yours. It's a canvas for all of us, reminding us that no matter where we are, we can find connection in our shared experiences. I hope it inspires you to reflect on your own sense of belonging and the beauty of the journeys we all undertake.