Painted Violin by J.K. Lamkin
A violin is a beautiful and magical musical instrument. To think that I could decorate one in any meaningful way that would improve on its sensuous lines and curves was pure fallacy. So I approached the project of painting the violin with not the idea of enhancing its inherent splendor, but to instead express how it spoke to me.Many ideas came to mind, and in the end what I most felt after observing and holding it was a sense of calm. I eventually decided that I would convey this emotion with an array of delicate flowers, a rich patina of gold and silver, and a surrounding braid that reflected the eternal joy and serenity the instrument provides. I dedicated my painted violin to my mother, who not only played the instrument but also instilled in me an appreciation for creativity."