Original Painting

Heart Break

Cosmos, Paintings

Heart Break explores the universal human experience of emotional devastation and the profound choice between healing and self-destruction that follows. Painted in acrylics on canvas, this work depicts two contrasting responses to heartbreak through symbolic imagery of hands and hearts. One narrative shows an open hand releasing a healed heart with wings ready to fly—representing those who transform pain into wisdom and strength.
The other reveals a clenched fist crushing a heart’s wings—symbolizing those who trap themselves in perpetual suffering. This duality captures the pivotal moment when we choose between liberation and self-imprisonment after love’s wounds.

Dimension

4"(W) x 6"(H)

Medium

Acrylic on Canvas

Year Created

June 2017

Framing

With temporary frame

Cultural Details

This artwork reflects universal spiritual teachings about attachment, suffering, and liberation found across cultures—from Buddhist concepts of clinging as the root of suffering to the Christian idea of death and resurrection. The imagery of hearts with wings connects to ancient symbols of the soul’s capacity for transcendence through pain. Many wisdom traditions recognize heartbreak as a crucial initiation, teaching that our greatest wounds often become gateways to deeper compassion, wisdom, and authentic connection with others.

Artist's Personal Note

“Heartbreak feels like death, yet it’s also our most profound teacher about resilience. Through this painting, I wanted to honor both paths people take after their hearts are shattered. I’ve witnessed friends choose healing and flight, while others remain trapped by their own grip. The contrast between the open and closed hands felt essential—showing that recovery isn’t about the severity of the wound, but about our willingness to eventually let go and trust again.”