Charleston native Anne Darby Parker has spent her life using various media to capture the essence of the unique human spirit. In her most recent endeavor, she uses a paint brush, ink, and oils to convey her observations of life and nature. This piece, Gathering of Joy, is one of the "Unity of Nine" series. In Gathering of Joy, Anne employs a limited pallet to depict the rich earth tone of the Lowcountry and simplifies shapes to release her work from the confines of realism. The light from the stained glass creates a strong contrast to the expressive figures. Gathering of Joy conveys Parker’s interest in how a community of people in spaces can lift us up and support our soul. This work reflects the power of people coming together for prayer and voice, while the warm earth colors connect us to the nature of the Lowcountry. The stained glass represents light and renewal of the human spirit, and the simplified shapes are symbolic of our soul.

"Gathering of Joy" is a 22" x 28" painting of oil on canvas.