Beth Pauvlinch

Since childhood, I have been creative with writing, painting, creative design and I am a visionary entrepreneur. During my lifetime, I have begun and ran several successful businesses within the legal field and the real estate market.

In 2009, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer. She initially denied treatment because she wanted to 'leave with all her parts'. Through gentle persuasion, she decided to fight. During this process, I knew I would need an outlet and writing was going to be it. I created a blog and encouraged my mother to join me in sharing our emotions on this blog. It seemed to be easier to type with sincere honesty than to speak it. Three years later, she lost her battle with cancer. Last year I turned that blog into a book 'Two Women 1 Disease' in honor of my mother and because I believe it will help others who are dealing with a similar situation.

Recently, I was so disturbed looking at her remains sitting upon my shelf reminding me of her loss that I created an abstract painting with her favorite colors and placed a small amount of her cremains within. I covered it with three coats of varnish so I am able to interact and touch the painting without damage to the art.

When I look at the painting that adorns my wall, rather than feeling all the pain of her loss, it reminds me of the beauty she left behind. I thought to myself that if this artwork can bring me some peace in the remembrance and celebration of my beautiful mother, then possibly it might help others dealing with the loss of life. 'Ashes of Love Memorials' was born. I'm hoping to create beauty where pain once existed!