My entry for the Anthro Gallery's "Fortitude" contest: [link]

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Fortitude is something deeper than bravery, something more everlasting than courage. The latter virtues describe heroism in the face of fear, danger, or strife. Admirable qualities, no doubt. But what of silent heroism, the quiet will to face hopelessness with undying fervor? What of a soldier, taken prisoner and enslaved by his enemies along with his childhood love; a soldier whose courage did not die on the battlefield, but lived on, strengthened every agonizing day when he looked into her forlorn face; a soldier who forged weapons in secrecy and remained ever vigilant, his own pain nothing compared to the burning desire for their freedom? When the day comes that he finds his chance and risks all to fight for their escape, he feels a sense not of surprise or relief, but finality, overwhelming fulfillment that his own hands did justice to his unwavering resolve.

In his own blood flows the definition of fortitude.

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I thank you all very much for your kind words on this painting -- the picture itself means a lot to me, and I'm very pleased that I was able to convey the emotion I was going for in this scene.

I also want to thank my husband, without whom this painting wouldn't have been possible. He is the vision; I am the paint brush. Before I met him I never imagined being able to sit there in my living room, painting a picture with anthro characters in front of a husband that not only does not make fun of me for it, but shares my interest.

This picture is dedicated to him, and to every other silent hero out there. He is my rock.


Close-up shot here: [link]

© Leona Windrider and Zdenek Multimedia 2007
[link]