Radical Changes

I've been working on this piece for over a year. Sometimes, when there is such a struggle, and an artist feels like they are working and reworking the same things, in other words, drawing a line, erasing it, drawing it again...until the paper seems worn through...well, then it's time for a sweeping change. When I'm stuck like that, I always have an inkling that an element in the piece just needs to go. I think that instinct is correct here as well. I've taken Ruth completely away from Naomi's shoulder and instead have her further away, as Boaz holds her hands in his, looks deeply into her eyes, and prepares to propose. I've also taken away the window and the oppressive curtains, which I liked, because I thought it symbolized Naomi's despair.  I guess this painting intends itself to be about focusing on the euphoric moment, rather than the past struggle of the characters. Paintings are like that...they decide, not the artist. :)