[Spring 2004 I commissioned David to paint Essence for me.] A spiritual essence surrounds and radiates from this painting. Somehow it seduces me with that spiritual essence. It is free-formed but not wild. It exudes passion, love and serenity. The woman in the center embodies all of female deities of anicent religions but at the same time, she is the modern woman.
     My name for the painting is Essence because to me it presents the very essence of life and woman. The woman is neither shown as the whore or Madonna. Instead, she is simple a spiritual being that strives to be in harmony with herself and the universe. Achieving harmony with oneself and the universe is the neverending quest of life. Whenever I look at this painting, I feel a strong sense of inner peace and self love. It brightenss my whole being.
        —Janaya R.