When Inspiration Strikes

Last night I woke up in the wee hours. I had this image in my mind and thankfully my journal was on the nightstand, so I sketched it out and fell back asleep. When I woke up this morning I saw it first thing and couldn’t wait to transfer it to canvas. Now mind you, I had a list of ‘must do’ things today, but I could not put off painting this and as soon as the kids were out the door I was in my studio in my jammies. Usually I get dressed and do a few household things first, but not today!


It was exhilarating! I’ve been so immersed in projects that I was surprised by the need to paint this. I was glad to know my muse was still with me.

This is only the second time I’ve painted a male face. I saw it in my dreams, in a sketch form. I knew exactly how I was going to do it.


I also knew whose face it was. It’s the face that I know almost as well as I know my own. The face of my best friend and today marks 11 years since he asked me to marry him.

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About pamcarriker

Mixed-Media Artist, Author, and Instructor Living Art at the Speed of Life! View all posts by pamcarriker

18 Responses to “When Inspiration Strikes”

  • whyte

    Pam this is Over the Top! I love this new style, it separates you so much from the other stylized portrait artists right now. You are flying higher woman!

  • suziart

    I just love it and the way it all came about. I have followed you for a long time and enjoy seeing your work in publications I am addicted to! You are always an inspiration…Xo!SuZi

  • Renee Troy

    Pam, I got chills to know that it is your husband's face you've created. To show feelings in the depth of a painting is to be connected to spirit. Amazing work…you are blessed in many ways.xxxooo

  • Sherry

    wonderful!and congratulations to you both

  • Janine

    Absolutely amazing!

  • Bonafyde

    Wow! The painting is so striking… I love how the shading is done and the angularness of the facial shapes.

  • U2Kitteh

    Oh Pam, this is so beautiful! You've made my morning. ::sigh::! <3

  • Patti

    wowee! your heart was beating to the rhythm of time, your muse alert even as you slept… what an amazing story! I wish I had an inspiration for a journal cover I'm trying to do, I have lovely textured background and that's it!

  • Becky Hilgendorf

    Thank-you for sharing the story and way your painting evolved…it's stunning,I saw it on your facebook,but to see the beginning to end was so awesome….I can so feel the love in your relationship with your husband,touched my heart… I've had dream visits before too…very magical,the muse never sleeps I guess:)

  • NANCY LEFKO

    Just wonderful….it means so much more with a powerful love story as inspiration.

  • slommler

    Love this painting Pam!! The faces are amazing!! When the muse strikes…follow. And you did…Good for you!! Awesome!!!HugsSueAnn

  • FUNKYSIREN

    Pam I have to tell you that this is one of my most favorite pieces you have done to date. If evidence is needed [and its not] that you are a great artist and not just a hobbyist this is it right there How beautiful and you can just see the love. i knew who it was as soon as I saw the first rough pencil draw ..LoL Frame it and keep it its so full of everything about your love for your man and family. Oh and do draw more MEN its not easy but you have a great touch. smiles and hugs Michellexxoo

  • Tara

    Ahh that's lovely. Really enjoyed that post! :)

  • Carissa Paige

    Pam, this is so incredible. I love the story behind it. The number 11 comes up a lot in my life (just thought I'd share.) Stunning pajama painting!Carissa

  • deborahspalette

    Truly inspiring, Some times I think people think, ARTIST can turn on and off our flow of creativity as if it is a choice.(A light switch) When it does flow it feels like a gift. And something beautiful is created. Which you achieved. Congradulations! Your gift is amazing. Many Blessings Deborah

  • Sharon

    Wish I had inspirations like that in my sleep. What a great image! I depend upon YOUR art for a lot of my inspiration because it is so beautiful. I absolutely LOVE your journaling workshop, and am learning so much. Janet Ghio has made arrangements for you to do a workshop for our ARTrageous art group in Columbia in July and we just cannot wait. We all LOVE your work!!! Sharon Pendergraft

  • Sharon

    When things like that happen you just have to go with the flow, don't you. Fantastic painting and so glad you didn't let any mundane project stop you!!!! Sharon

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