Stay Close

20” x 20” | Oil on canvas

Before they can confidently explore the world, they need to know there is somewhere safe to return.

Stay Close is about the quiet security of being loved, protected, and given the freedom to learn about the world with someone you trust nearby.

Young foxes are naturally curious. There is an entire world waiting to be investigated, but first there are things to learn - what is safe, what isn't, when to explore, and when to stay close.

I think children need much the same thing. They need protection, but even more, they need our presence. Someone who listens to their questions, wonders with them, helps them understand what they discover, and stays close enough that they feel safe exploring farther.

The little fox won't always need to stay this close. She'll grow, wander farther, make her own decisions, and discover things without us.

That's the goal.

But right now, there are questions to answer and a world to explore together. What she learns here and the security of knowing someone was truly there with her - will go with her when she's ready to leave.

Stay close now, so someday they can go farther.