(Private commission). ‘Ardban Light’. Mixed media on 23×16 inch wood panel. Rose Strang 2019

I mentioned a while back that a friend in the US, Clay Clarkson, commissioned me to paint something for a music CD cover that expressed hope after a long night. I painted ‘Ardban Light’ (above) in response.

Clay has now put together a CD with with music written by himself, friends and family for Advent, titled ‘Songs for the Long Night: An Advent Journey’; I’m honoured that my painting adorns this excellent CD!

You can listen to the songs (and buy the CD) Here.

All the songs are great, beautifully produced – a few of the songs are written by Clay and there’s one in particular ‘How Will it Be’ which I think is lovely. It features Clay’s daughter, Joy, singing. She shares with Clay a quality of voice that makes you want to listen – authentic, meaningful and with beautiful, melifluous tone. The CD is very Christian in theme, so it’s definitely one for those who find this time of year particularly meaningful; not just a time for family and gift-giving but a celebration of Christ.

I’m truly honoured that Clay chose my painting as the CD cover. I’m not part of any religious group as such, but I was very inspired by the subject and theme and painting this has been meaningful for me on my own spiritual journey.

Well done to Clay, Joy and all musicians and singers involved in the CD; lovely work, beautifully produced, which I’m sure will be welcomed and appreciated by many over Advent.

Here’s the link again … Songs for the Long Night

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!