Free Spirit on a Sword

“Free Spirit on a Sword” was painted from a thought that a free spirit must also possess a sword, symbolizing the idea that true freedom is not simply given; it is something that must be actively defended and fought for. Freedom is not something that is free in the most literal sense; it requires effort, resilience, and the willingness to confront challenges. Every day, individuals must engage in battles—both internal and external—to maintain their autonomy and to uphold their beliefs and values. This painting draws inspiration from a memorable encounter with a striking kingfisher that visited my daughter one day, a moment that encapsulated the essence of freedom and courage. The choice of the swordfish was a natural one for this theme, as swordfish are renowned for their incredible strength, remarkable agility, and deftness in navigating the waters. Just like a free spirit, the swordfish embodies the essence of navigating through life's turbulent seas while wielding its sword-like bill as a tool of defense and empowerment. This imagery serves to remind us that while we may aspire to live freely, we must also be prepared to take up our swords—whether they be metaphorical or literal—to protect our freedom and to assert our presence in the world. The juxtaposition of a free spirit with the swordfish creates a powerful narrative about the interplay between liberty and the struggle required to achieve and maintain it.