Ever since I visited China, I have wanted to paint the Chinese Zodiac! I put it off for years, but now I think I am ready to begin with Series A. And what better time to begin than that of the Year of the Rat--the first sign!

For this painting, a haunting girl carries a pale rat through the midnight snow. The rat is the 1st sign of the Chines zodiac. It's ruling hours are from 11pm-1am. That is why I chose to show the scene in the dead of the night. The season and month of the rat are Winter/December. The rat is associated with the gemstone garnet. So I included a garnet encrusted skull in her hair. It is also associated with the element of water; hence, the little looking pool behind the girl. And in the sky, I had the stars align to show the Chinese character for rat.

Whether you were born in the Year of the Rat, or you simply enjoy rats or gothic art, this will make a great addition to an collection!

12x16 Acrylic on Canvas.

Copyright Misty Benson. All Rights Reserved.