I painted this figure onto a scrapbook page assembled in 1880 by Clara E. Bleckschmidth, a young German immigrant living in West Virginia. Her careful clippings have become the foundation for this work: what inspired her then continues to inspire me now.

Astrid, the model, stands in a posture of triumphant resolve — strong, radiant, and unmistakably heroic. The way her silhouette interacts with the antique collage gives the impression of winged armor, as if she’s stepped into a mythic role. She becomes both muse and victor.

This original painting measures 7 × 8 inches is float-mounted in a black walnut gallery frame. The final dimensions are 11.25 × 12 inches. It ships framed and ready to hang.