Late one afternoon in a tropical Indonesian lagoon, I was swimming near several moored fishing canoes. A large cloud formed in the distant sky. The dichotomy of the tied boat within the expansive freedom of the sea and sky evoked this finished image. It is the story of the duality that results from the act of emotionally tying ourselves to another in a partnership or marriage. Perhaps at times limiting, but ideally expansive and freeing in that it allows us – in the knowing that we are loved no matter what – to be more of our true and authentic selves. My wife in her wedding dress served as the figure model. Making this painting even more poignant for me.