When I painted *A Soft Awakening*, I wanted to capture that sweet, quiet moment when a white flower slowly unfurls its petals—like it’s stretching awake after a good nap. I played around with soft whites and creams to give the petals a gentle, layered feel that almost begs you to reach out and touch them. The center pops with warm yellows and oranges, kind of like the flower’s little sunshine, anchoring the whole thing with a cozy glow.

Around the bloom, I added some loose, abstract shapes in muted greens and beiges—think of them as the flower’s chill, organic hangout spot. On the right, you’ll spot a few paint drips sneaking in, adding a bit of playful movement, like the flower’s not just waking up, but dancing a little too. The maroon background? It’s my way of making sure the flower really steals the spotlight without shouting.

This piece is less about botanical accuracy and more about catching that fresh, tender moment when something as simple as a flower feels alive and full of possibility. It’s my little invitation for you to slow down and notice the magic hiding in everyday things—the quiet unfolding, the soft shifts in light and color, the beautiful beginnings that happen quietly, right under our noses.