A Handshake With Fate

 The smudged lines and gritty charcoal were like the smoke, dust, and darkness of the story; it took me some time to find the inspiration. But here it is, the face of my brother's very first self-published album, 'A Handshake With Fate.'

It tells the story of a monster hunter who pursues the answers to the supernatural. The music itself often sounds deranged and distorted, and the names are just as odd, but I think they will capture you're interest. If you have the time, you can listen to the album on his YouTube channel;

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCi62Q-pXyEFkjfu3f_KOVRw

The Waters of Aslan's Country

    This painting was done by me and my sister at the request of my aunt and uncle. It was a heavy reminder of how much me and my sister have changed artistically since she taught me all those years ago. While I wished to linger on the details of the crest of every wave, my sister splashed the canvas with whatever she felt was right and spread it around with just as much purpose (or so I deemed and hoped).

    This was also my first finished acrylic painting, which means that its value will only increase as more are added to my collection. And one day, I'll see it again in person; it will be hanging on the wall at Viola's and Tobi's house, and I will be holding a cup of tea in one hand and a nice sandwich in the other, looking at it again for the first time since I'd painted it. The sandwich will have a good layer of butter, some nice cheese, with salted cucumbers, and some ham.

 

 For Tobi and Viola, October 2021

At the Gates of Redwall

The Abbey of Redwall is a safe-haven for critters everywhere. It was built from red sandstone long ago, and there is has stood since. Inside lie friends, food, a cozy fire, and tales waiting to be told by any well-travelled visitor or elder.

    Many Redwallers have ventured off to faraway lands, and returned to Redwall after their many adventures. I imagined one such lonely warrior walking down a road, that led through Mossflower wood, and up to the gate. His pack, though empty of any good food since yesterday, lies heavy on his shoulders; his cloak is dusty from all the walking; his sandals are worn, and wet from wading through that stream; but his love for home drives him on. This piece is called 'On the Road to Redwall.'

 

Here are the gates into Redwall, surrounded by Mossflower woods.

 

I imagined the gates being battered and old, after keeping out Redwall's enemies for so long. Many have wished and tried to conquer Redwall and end the peace.

But I also imagined the gates being heavy, sturdy, and impenetrable, always standing to protect the good creatures of Mossflower wood. 

In my opinion, the Redwall Saga are classic tales, and I almost wish I had discovered them sooner, so I could have enjoyed reading them before I turned my attention to larger, much fatter books. But for now, I look forward to going back and reading my favourites from the series.