"The Pink Had to Be There" was born out of an unforgettable trip to Austin, TX. The city's energy and vibrant spirit left such a lasting impression on me that I felt compelled to capture it on canvas. Initially, I envisioned the piece as a moody, introspective work—something about Austin's eclectic vibe felt deeper than just color. But as I painted, it didn’t feel quite right. I kept pushing the colors, yet something was missing.
I tried to steer away from pink at first, thinking it wasn’t necessary, but the painting felt incomplete without it. It lacked the joy that Austin had given me. Finally, I gave in and added those splashes of fluorescent pink, and suddenly, everything clicked. The piece came alive, radiating the same happiness and energy I experienced during my trip. The pink had to be there. It was the pulse, the heartbeat that brought everything together.
With bold oranges, blues, and greens dancing alongside that vibrant pink, this painting became a celebration of Austin’s perfect, uplifting vibe. It’s not just a reflection of the city—it’s a reflection of the joy and transformation I felt while being there.
