Transforming Pain into Art: The Power of Creative Expression

Sherman Kelly composed the song “Dancin' in the Moonlight” in 1969. During his recovery from a brutal attack by a gang, he "imagined an alternate reality, a vision of a peaceful and joyful celebration of life." If you've experienced unfortunate events in your life, you can turn them into a song, a poem or piece of art. Explore today's Creative Helping Hands artistic reflection to begin to learn how. 

"Poppy in the moonlight" 2025. Oil on canvas, 30cm x 30cm

The moon symbolizes the passage of days, seasons, and years, whereas red poppy symbolizes consolation, remembrance, and death. The selected flower in the painting signifies the death of an individual's dreams, desires, and pursuits, acting as a reminder that the various complexities of life are simply elements of the ongoing cycles.

While observing the painting, viewers are invited to consider past and present challenges, pursuits, and pleasures that fail to provide lasting fulfillment and joy. As they ponder these unsatisfying pursuits, they are encouraged to reflect on the wisdom found in Ecclesiastes: “I applied myself to the understanding of wisdom, and also of madness and folly, but I learned that this, too, is a chasing after the wind. For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief.” - Ecclesiastes 1:17-18

"Poppy in the moonlight" invites its audience to reflect on and let go of the painful elements of the past, creating space for something new and enduring.