“To be a mother is to be interrupted, and to be an artist is to be interrupted. But the mother-artist is never just interrupted—she is torn in two.” – Catherine Ricketts, Mother Artist

This painting is a tribute to every woman who has wrestled with the impossible balance of nurturing both a child and a creative life. Motherhood demands everything, yet the artist within us still lingers, waiting to be seen, to be heard, to create.

As a Mother Artist myself, I know the struggle intimately—the stolen moments of creativity between nap times, the frustration of half-finished ideas, the overwhelm of choosing art over laundry. But I also know this: you are still creative. You are still an artist.

This gouache piece captures the beauty of embracing both sides. Vibrant, joyful colors capture the warmth and energy of motherhood, while bold, expressive strokes celebrate the creativity that still thrives within us—expanding, evolving, and adding even more beauty to the canvas of our lives.

For the women who wonder if they can still make art, write, dance, or dream after children, let this painting be your answer. Yes, you can. You always could.