Courage and the Strength Within

Excited to show the design renderings for the Courage panel on level one of the Sphere of Light. Working on this scene was both engaging and demanding. As humans, we each keenly understand internal struggles and the need to confront them with courage. As artists, we hoped to illustrate that in a way which was universally applicable and understood.

The images on this level come from a more simple or childlike perspective, which is why we rely on stories, legends, and myths. It was particularly enjoyable to remember the stories from our own childhoods and also fulfilling to be introduced to those from other cultures. Ultimately, we hope that the viewers gain a greater understanding of their own capacity for courage and strength to face the dragons in their lives.

The courage panel immediately confronts the viewer with the imposing image of a humongous dragon. It is so large that some part of its body appears in the majority of the sections. This beast is a reflection of the many “dragons” each of us encounters in the human experience. These moments may be emotional, mental, physical, or a combination yet each will require a willingness to reach for the deepest wells of strength and fortitude that we possess just as the man engaged in battle with the formidable creature is doing.

Surrounding this central action are various international stories and tales of those who find themselves in terrifying circumstances. At the far left, the very entrance to Hell is a reminder that every human being will need to find their way through the dark abyss of difficulties such as fear, loss, trauma, neglect, betrayal, injustice, and painful consequences. Whether our own choices have led us to this obscure situation or we were subject to the behavior of others, it is up to us to find a way through and eventually out, hopefully helping others along the way as seen on the far right.

Until next time,

• Roots of Humanity