Seizing Shadows
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"Seizing Shadows"
48x48" oil on canvas
‼️Content Warning: The following may be sensitive or difficult to read‼️
Before becoming a full-time artist, I spent nearly a decade as a nurse in trauma, critical care, and on the code blue team. I was on track to start CRNA school when COVID hit, and then, after a long and difficult fertility journey, I discovered I was finally pregnant. That moment changed everything for me. I left nursing to pursue my lifelong dream of becoming a full-time artist and opening my own gallery. Four years later, I’m proud to say my dream is thriving, but I’m still very much a nurse at heart.
Recently, life brought me back to the frontlines in unexpected ways…
A few weeks ago, while driving with my family, we passed a horrific accident. A young woman had just been struck by a garbage truck. She was lying alone on the road while bystanders frantically called 911. Without hesitation, I ran to the scene. As an experienced nurse, I recognized quickly that her wounds were fatal, and I could only offer her comfort and apply pressure to a head wound. She acknowledged my presence and responded well to my touch. The next day, I learned that she was only 13 years old, and an aspiring artist. Her name was Chloe. Today this day, I’m still processing this grief.
Just three weeks later, I drove by another traumatic scene—a young man in a motorcycle accident. Despite my initial hesitation after the last loss, I stopped to help. I was able to stabilize a severe injury and stop bleeding with a belt a kind stranger gave me as I searched for a tourniquet. This quick action helped save his life. I have since heard from family members that he is alive and well.
In both instances, I had to quickly switch gears—shower, and then continue my very busy roles as a mom, business owner, and wife to a husband in a fast-growing startup.
I don’t know what’s written in the stars, but I truly believe I was meant to be there in those moments. Creating this piece was my way of healing and processing my emotions. This painting is a reminder to be kind, courageous, and live each day with gratitude. 💜
All orders ship free within the US. Please allow 2–4 weeks for delivery — each piece is handled with care by our small, dedicated team. For full details, visit our Shipping Policy page. For information regarding returns and exchange, please visit our Return and Exchange Policy page.
This painting is sold unframed. Handmade wooden frames, locally crafted, are available upon request.
Shalimar Waffa is a nationally recognized artist whose signature Pastelo style — a technique of building rich, thick layers of oil directly onto canvas with a palette knife that transforms raw emotion into timeless work, created to be passed down and treasured for generations.
Every original painting comes with a signed Certificate of Authenticity from Shalimar Waffa. This document confirms the piece is a one-of-a-kind original — never reproduced, never duplicated — and is your assurance of its provenance and lasting value as a collector's work.
Your painting leaves the studio finished with a protective varnish. To dust, simply wipe gently with a dry microfiber cloth — no water, no sprays. Keep the piece out of direct sunlight and high-UV areas to preserve the color over time. Oil paintings can take up to 12 months to fully cure, so avoid placing anything directly on the surface during this period. For long-term protection, framing is recommended.