Butterflies are Free 16 inch by 20 inch oil on linen canvas $500 see enlarge image

This painting shows the understanding of parameters of American Sign Language.

The shape, placement, and movement of the hands, as well as facial expressions and body movement, all play an important role in conveying information.

The signing of 'Butterflies are Free,' have a meaning behind them. Butterfly is a De'VIA motif that represents an affirmation category, which means Deaf metamorphosis, an evolution, a journey, Deafhood, freedom, growth, happiness and thrive.

The Deaf person shows a serious facial expression, meaning the butterflies are finally free. It really means that persons finally discovered their own identity, knowing who they are, and no more feeling 'submissive' or 'oppressed' and getting to know their own human rights.

There are fine white line circles in around the body, which represent movement and placement of sign language. The arrows represent the butterflies moving around and how they fly, showing expression and emotions.

The colours red, yellow and blue, as well as black and white are coloured in shapes, opposing to each other, makes an interesting picture.