A Night to Remember: Putting the Art in Heartfelt
On a night filled with emotion, courage, and compassion, I had the honour of painting live at the Heartfelt Gala - an event dedicated to supporting those who are navigating the painful journey of grief after losing a loved one. Held at the stunning Le Montage in Lilyfield, the evening was not only a celebration of resilience but also a powerful reminder of how art can play a role in healing.
From 6pm, I stood before a room full of generous, heartfelt guests and began to paint a story; not just my own, but one that reflected the collective spirit of the evening. For hours, I added stroke after stroke as conversations, speeches, and stories of love and loss unfolded around me. With just 10 minutes left before the live auction, the final touches were added. The canvas was still wet when I carried it onto the stage - alive and raw, just like the emotions that inspired it.
The artwork I created was deeply symbolic, a visual representation of the Heartfelt Foundation and the journey we all face in life. On the left-hand side, I portrayed the weight of sorrow, the moments of despair, and the emptiness that comes with profound loss. As your eyes move across the canvas, the narrative shifts. The right-hand side depicts the beauty that life offers such as love and connection. And at the top centre, a glowing light draws upward - a soul moving toward peace, a symbol of life after death and the divine presence that embraces those who have passed on.
This piece was created live, not just as performance, but as purposeful expression. The inspiration came from the heartfelt stories shared during the evening, particularly by Bridget Sakr, founder of the Heartfelt Foundation. Her courage, and the strength shown by others who stood up and shared their journeys of loss and resilience, moved me deeply. Through their pain, they’ve chosen to help others - an act of grace and service that cannot be overstated.
When the artwork was auctioned off, it sold for $5,500. I was overwhelmed by the generosity of the buyer and the support from the room. But even more than the number, it was the why behind it that mattered. This wasn’t just art - it was a symbol of solidarity, hope, and healing. And to know that it contributed to a cause as meaningful as the Heartfelt Foundation was humbling.
Grief is often quietly endured. It doesn't make headlines. But it can be just as life-altering as any illness. We often don’t realise how much help we need until grief arrives unannounced, altering everything. Events like the Heartfelt Gala give space for that voice, for acknowledgment, for healing, and for hope.
I truly believe God was present that night, smiling down as we honoured those who have gone before us. In the midst of pain, there was beauty. In mourning, there was love. And through art, there was connection.
To everyone who attended, to those who shared their stories, and to the one who gave so generously to take this painting home - thank you. You helped make that night a sacred space, and I’m forever grateful to have been a part of it.
