This one’s personal.
My two children were adopted through foster care. During the process, we learned that they were taken from their birth mother — a woman battling severe addiction. At the time, I saw her as someone unfit. But now, years later, as a parent myself, my heart breaks for her. For what she lost. For what addiction stole from her.
This painting is my way of acknowledging that pain — of recognizing my role in it, even if I was on the “right” side of the system.
It’s also a mirror held up to what continues today. Especially on the Rez, where meth and opioids don’t just destroy users — they fracture families, steal children, and unravel entire communities.
This isn’t a political statement. It’s a human one.
And maybe… a prayer for healing
Thanks Carolyn. I really tried to make that expression come through. I don't know if you noticed, but I also made her reaching hand oversized on purpose to add symbolism.
No Bob, I hadn’t noticed on first look, but now that you pointed it out even the position of the grasping hand feels desperate…. it is an awesome depiction!
Powerful, indeed--well done!
Thanks John!
Hey buddy, that's great painted. Hard story, painful experience. You did it very well. Top work. I wanted to send you an e-mail but don't get any pictures out. I'll try again later. In fact, I painted👀👍🏼🔪🇩🇪
Impressive scene again Bob!
These Rez Life inspired paintings are very powerfull Bob. ❤️
Such sad stories.
Is there a way of showing these to an audience? For raising more awareness?
On the other hand... I guess there is awareness but nothing is done because the people in charge just don't deem it important enough. "It's just those natives" Yuck. :-(
Especially the one that's in charge at the moment won't care.
Thanks Dirk! I got the email. Post that painting. It’s gorgeous!
Thanks Joha!
@Titia - I’m assembling the entire series for a public display at an Indigenous Rights Conference. I hope it gains traction and maybe it’ll be on display somewhere after that.?
Oh, sounds good! ❤️
I also hope it gains traction. ❤️
Such powerful emotions expressed here! Wonderful work!
So very powerful.
Thank you Sandy. I’m glad I captured them.
Thank you Stephie.
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Powerful. The expression of despair on the mother’s face hurts my heart. I know too many people, personally who have been affected either themselves or a family member’s addiction. It is a terrible evil.