{"title":"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train Series","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal abstract paintings using Thomas the Train toys to paint instead of paintbrushes by Toronto Artist Rachael Grad.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not-so-subtle metaphor for being a mother and an artist. When I became a mother, my art changed course. Toys overtook my home and artwork. In this series I reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush. The sweeping motion of this mark making is unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back, like the physical aches experienced when mothering newborns. The playful colour works versus dark black images reflect the 24-hour nature of mom duties. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-weight: 400;\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I use small toy trains to make marks across watercolour paper. I dip trains in paint, then roll them while standing or kneeling over the paper to make lines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting Series \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-cross-country-2","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Cross-Country #2","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eCross-Country #2\u003c\/em\u003e, 2021-22, Watercolour on Paper, 36\" x 36\" is the second large painting in this series. This abstract painting has been commissioned by RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) for a limited edition fine art print for its corporate collection of fine artwork. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this original painted artwork on paper is framed. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across a large 36” x 36” watercolour paper. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThis abstract Motherhood \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eHit Me Like a Train \u003c\/span\u003epainting was exhibited in:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2022, Toronto Outdoor Art Fair, Booth A-24, July 15th to 17th, 2022 in Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42342912688366,"sku":"","price":1525.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/products\/MotherhoodHitMeLIkeaTrain_Cross-Country_2_January72022.jpg?v=1642497556"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-grey-line-4","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Grey Line #4","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Grey Line #4, 2021, Ink on Paper, 14\" x 11.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eGrey Line\u003c\/em\u003e abstract painting series is part of my\u003cem\u003e Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e Series. This original artwork is painted with black ink on heavy weight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to make grey marks on the white page. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePlease note that this artwork on paper is sold matted and shipped unframed. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42344201519342,"sku":"","price":200.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/products\/MotherhoodHitMeLIkeaTrain_GreyLine4_14x11_january172022.jpg?v=1642448251"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-grey-line-1","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Grey Line #1","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Grey Line #1, 2021, Ink on Paper, 14\" x 11.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eGrey Line\u003c\/em\u003e abstract painting series is part of my\u003cem\u003e Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e Series. This original artwork is painted with black ink on heavy weight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to make grey marks on the white page. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePlease note that this artwork on paper is sold matted and shipped unframed. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42344215150830,"sku":"","price":200.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/products\/MotherhoodHitMeLIkeaTrain_GreyLine1_14x11_december262021.jpg?v=1642447933"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-grey-line-5","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Grey Line #5","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Grey Line #5, 2021, Ink on Paper, 14\" x 11.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eGrey Line\u003c\/em\u003e abstract painting series is part of my\u003cem\u003e Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e Series. This original artwork is painted with black ink on heavy weight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to make grey marks on the white page. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePlease note that this artwork on paper is matted and framed in a black frame and shipped framed. The matted size is 16\" x 20.\" The framed size is 17” x 21.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42344238121198,"sku":"","price":500.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/products\/MotherhoodHitMeLIkeaTrain_GreyLine5_14x11_december262021.jpg?v=1642448429"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-overnighter-3","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Overnighter #3","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Overnighter #3, 2021, Watercolor on Paper, 10\" x 10.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eOvernighter\u003c\/em\u003e abstract painting series is part of my\u003cem\u003e Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e Series. This original artwork is painted with watercolor paint and metallics on black, heavyweight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ecreate colorful lines and marks on the black page.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis Overnighter #3 painting has strong metallic silver, gold, yellow, pink, red and purple colours on a black background. The colourful painted lines are structural though sparse. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePlease note that this artwork on paper is sold already framed and shipped framed. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42344534049006,"sku":"","price":360.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/products\/MotherhoodTrain_overnighter_3_10x10_january172022.jpg?v=1642497577"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-overnighter-6","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Overnighter #6","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Overnighter #6, 2021, Watercolor on Paper, 10\" x 10.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe \u003cem\u003eOvernighter\u003c\/em\u003e abstract painting series is part of my\u003cem\u003e Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e Series. This original artwork is painted with watercolor paint and metallics on black, heavyweight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ecreate colorful lines and marks on the black page.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan class=\"a_GcMg font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none\"\u003eParenting is 24-7 and requires countless all-nighters with babies and children. The Overnighter tonal paintings in my “Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train” series reflect the all-consuming, always-on-call role of motherhood. Many nights rocking newborn babies felt like I was on a never-ending train to nowhere. As a new parent I felt derailed as an artist, but always knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel as the children grow. I eventually found a way to get back on track and set a new route.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a_GcMg font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none white-space-prewrap\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan class=\"a_GcMg font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eParenting is 24-7 and requires countless all-nighters with babies and children. The Overnighter tonal paintings in my “Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train” series reflect the all-consuming, always-on-call role of motherhood. Many nights rocking newborn babies felt like I was on a never-ending train to nowhere. As a new parent I felt derailed as an artist, but always knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel as the children grow. I eventually found a way to get back on track and set a new route.\u003cspan class=\"a_GcMg font-feature-liga-off font-feature-clig-off font-feature-calt-off text-decoration-none text-strikethrough-none white-space-prewrap\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOvernighter #6 has strong metallic purple, blue, orange, and yellow colours on a black background. The colourful painted lines create structure and depth on the surface. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this artwork on paper is sold as is in a black frame and shipped framed. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42347910267118,"sku":"","price":360.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/products\/MotherhoodTrain_overnighter_6_10x10_december292021.jpg?v=1642583908"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-route-3","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Route #3","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Route #3, 2021, Watercolor on Paper, 11\" x 14.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe colourful abstract painting is part of my\u003cem\u003e Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e Series. This original artwork is painted with watercolor heavyweight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to create \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003ecolourful marks and lines on the white surface. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColor Route #3 has red, green, yellow, purple and multicolors on a white background. The colourful painted lines are layered and create structure and depth on the surface. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePlease note that this original painted artwork on paper is framed. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42347965317358,"sku":"","price":350.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/products\/MotherhoodHitMeLIkeaTrain_Route_3_11x14_december262021.jpg?v=1642583920"},{"product_id":"fine-art-print-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-cross-country-2","title":"Fine Art Print - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Cross-Country #2","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eCross-Country #2\u003c\/em\u003e, 2021-22, a limited edition fine art print of a Watercolour on Paper, 36\" x 36\" large abstract painting. The abstract painting was commissioned by RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) for a limited edition fine art print for its corporate collection of fine artwork. Two fine art prints are in the prestigious RBC art collection. One Artist Proof of this series is available for purchase. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePlease note that this artwork on paper is not framed. Framing is available for an additional fee. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across a large 36” x 36” watercolour paper. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eThis abstract toy elephant painting was exhibited in:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2022, Toronto Outdoor Art Fair, Booth A-24, July 15th to 17th, 2022 in Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West, Toronto, Ontario\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44239351906542,"sku":"","price":900.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/RachaelGrad_MotherhoodHitMeLikeaTrain_Cross-Country_2_2021_36_X36_WatercolouronPaper.jpg?v=1716390416"},{"product_id":"motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-mid-line-1","title":"Painting: Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Mid-Line #1","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eMid-Line #1,\u003c\/em\u003e 2024, an original Watercolour on Paper measuring 30\" x 22.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this artwork on paper is framed. The painting can be shipped framed or removed from the frame and shipped in a mailing tube. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe original painting was on view at the Gallery at the J in March 2024. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across watercolour paper. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArtwork from my \"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\" painting series is in the permanent collections of the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Bank of Montreal, Altree Developments and private collections in New York and Toronto. \u003c\/h3\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44339116671214,"sku":null,"price":900.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/Motherhood_Hit_Me_Like_a_Train_Mid-Line_1_2024_by_artist_Rachael_Grad.jpg?v=1752148744"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-early-morning","title":"Painting: Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Early Morning","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eEarly Morning,\u003c\/em\u003e 2024, an original Watercolour on Canvas measuring 24\" x 36\" x 1.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePlease note that this painting on canvas is not framed. Framing is available for an additional fee. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across a large 36” x 36” watercolour paper. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44393506046190,"sku":null,"price":800.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/RachaelGrad_MotherhoodHitMeLIkeaTrainEarlyMorning_2024_WatercolorandGroundonCanvas_24_x36_forwebsite.jpg?v=1716392036"},{"product_id":"stationery-card-set-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train","title":"Stationery Card Set - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBright, colorful abstract art stationery cards from my original \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e painting. Gorgeous folded stationery card with an abstract line pattern based on an original painting by Artist Rachael Grad. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSold as a set of 3 cards with matching envelopes. Printed and shipped from Canada.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a TrainAbstract Art Stationery Card Features:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eeach note card measures 5\" x 7\" folded\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eblank inside, perfect for any occasion\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003epackaged in a clear, compostable card jacket with a recycled, classic white envelope\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003ecan be framed as a small artwork\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epaper is satin finish heavy card stock paper (with 352 gsm weight)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eimage is printed using a vibrant 4-color print process with toner\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eenvironmentally-friendly: paper is FSC certified (FSC Certification ensures that products come from responsibly managed forests that are evaluated to meet FSC's strict environmental and social standards)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eheavy weight paper is resistant to fingerprints and scuff marks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eedges are precision cut print\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCanadian-made: designed, printed and shipped from Canada\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRead more about this colorful abstract painting series in this Art Blog post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/art-series-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"motherhood hit me like a train art series by artist Rachael Grad\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train Art Series\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePROCESSING TIME FOR ART CARDS AND STATIONERY:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis art stationery card set is made to order just for you. Work will be begin on it once you've payed for your order. The processing time for it will take between 1 to 3 weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll items are Canadian-made and will ship directly from my art studio, art shows or hand-made manufacturer in Canada. The time I need to prepare an order for shipping varies and some can take up to 4 weeks.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIf you need your item by a certain date, please ask me the production time before placing an order.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSHIPPING TIMES FOR ART CARDS AND STATIONERY:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe time needed to ship can vary depending on the time of year and location. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNorth America: 1 to 3 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEurope and International: 2 to 4 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but cannot guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePLEASE NOTE TRACKING IS NOT INCLUDED WITH YOUR ORDER. Canada Post does not include tracking - either domestic OR international tracking - as standard. If you'd like to upgrade to shipping with tracking, please let me know.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eThanks so much for your interest in my artwork and gifts!\u003c\/h5\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad Art \u0026 Gifts","offers":[{"title":"Set of 3 (with envelopes)","offer_id":44777097494766,"sku":"2197430|set-of-three","price":30.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/MotherhoodHitMeLikeaTrainStationeryCardsbyArtistRachaelGradfrontview.jpg?v=1709544062"},{"product_id":"art-scarf-square-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-art","title":"Art Scarf - Square, Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train Art","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGorgeous square scarf\u003cspan\u003e with\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e a line art design. Abstract art pattern by artist Rachael Grad based on \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e series painting\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMade in Canada:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan\u003ethe fluid, beautifully draped art scarf was designed in Canada and is printed, hand sewn, packaged and shipped in Canada.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eScarves are a perfect way for casual or dressy outfits. Wear art everywhere you go with this gorgeous art scarf! \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChoose between three square scarf sizes:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e26\" x 26\" (66.04 cm x 66.04 cm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e36\" x 26\" (91.44 cm x 91.44 cm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e50\" x 50\" (127 cm x 127 cm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSCARF FEATURES \u0026amp; FABRIC OPTIONS\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e100% silk fabric\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBeautiful drape\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGorgeous colors in the star art print will not fade when wearing or washing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMADE IN CANADA:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eDesigned, printed, sewn by hand, packaged and shipped all in Canada\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEasy to clean and care for: machine wash the scarf in cold water with a phosphate-free detergent, then hang to dry and iron on the synthetic\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlease note that the scarf may shrink after the first wash\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003ePROCESSING TIMES FOR ART SCARVES:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis stars art scarf\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003eis made to order just for you. Work will be begin on it once you've payed for your order. The processing time for it will take between 1 to 3 weeks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll items are Canadian-made and will ship directly from my art studio, art shows or hand-made manufacturer in Canada. The time I need to prepare an order for shipping varies and some can take up to 4 weeks.\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIf you need your item by a certain date, please ask me the production time before placing an order.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eSHIPPING TIMES FOR Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train ART SCARVES:\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe time needed to ship can vary depending on the time of year and location. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNorth America: 1 to 3 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEurope and International: 2 to 4 weeks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but cannot guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePLEASE NOTE TRACKING IS NOT INCLUDED WITH YOUR ORDER. Canada Post does not include tracking - either domestic OR international tracking - as standard. If you'd like to upgrade to shipping with tracking, please let me know.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eThanks so much for your interest in my artwork and gifts!\u003c\/h5\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad Art \u0026 Gifts","offers":[{"title":"26\" x 26\" \/ Silk Habotai","offer_id":44777103950062,"sku":"3914111|26x26|silk-habotai","price":80.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"36\" x 36\" \/ Silk Habotai","offer_id":44777103982830,"sku":"3914111|36x36|silk-habotai","price":90.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true},{"title":"50\" x 50\" \/ Silk Habotai","offer_id":44777104015598,"sku":"3914111|50x50|silk-habotai","price":110.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/MotherhoodHitMeLikeaTrainSilkArtScarfbyArtistRachaelGrad.jpg?v=1709544070"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-sleeper-line-6","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Sleeper Line #6","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003cspan\u003eSleeper Train 6, 2024, Watercolour and Ink on Paper, Framed at 28\" x 36.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eParenting is 24-7 and requires countless all-nighters with babies and children. The Sleeper Train tonal paintings in my “Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train” series reflect the all-consuming, always-on-call role of motherhood. Many nights rocking newborn babies felt like I was on a never-ending train to nowhere. As a new parent I felt derailed as an artist, but always knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel as the children grow. I eventually found a way to get back on track and set a new route.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis original artwork is painted with black ink on heavy weight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to make black and grey lines on the white page. The line artwork is matted and framed in a black matt frame. Shown on view in Toronto in May 2024. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this original painted artwork on paper is framed \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ein a 28” x 36” black matt frame.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDelivery is free within the Greater Toronto area. Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. The painting can be removed from the frame and shipped in a mailing tube. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46019134521582,"sku":null,"price":900.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/Motherhood_Hit_Me_Like_a_Train_Sleeper_Train_6_abstract_painting_by_Rachael_Grad.jpg?v=1734289204"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-diptych-rosie-coloured-windows","title":"Painting: Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train (Diptych), Rosie-Coloured Windows","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e \u003cem\u003e(Diptych): Rosie-Coloured Windows,\u003c\/em\u003e 2024, an original Watercolour on two Canvases, each measuring 24\" x 36\" x 1.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePlease note that these paintings on canvas are not framed. Framing is available for an additional fee. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area. Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis original diptych, meaning two panel painting, was shown in March 2024 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across the canvas surface. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46030620917998,"sku":null,"price":1600.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/Motherhood_Hit_Me_Like_a_Train_Diptych_painting_by_Rachael_Grad.jpg?v=1734962902"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-sleeper-line-7","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Sleeper Line #7","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003cspan\u003eSleeper Train 7, 2024, Watercolour and Ink on Paper, Framed at 28\" x 36.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eParenting is 24-7 and requires countless all-nighters with babies and children. The Sleeper Train tonal paintings in my “Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train” series reflect the all-consuming, always-on-call role of motherhood. Many nights rocking newborn babies felt like I was on a never-ending train to nowhere. As a new parent I felt derailed as an artist, but always knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel as the children grow. I eventually found a way to get back on track and set a new route.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eThis original artwork is painted with black ink on heavy weight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to make black and grey lines on the white page. The line artwork is matted and framed in a black matt frame. Shown on view in Toronto in May 2024. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this original painted artwork on paper is framed \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ein a 28” x 36” black matt frame.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDelivery is free within the Greater Toronto area. Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. The painting can be removed from the frame and shipped in a mailing tube. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46744189567214,"sku":null,"price":900.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/Motherhood_Hit_Me_Like_a_Train_Sleeper_Line_7_2024_edited.jpg?v=1752179590"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-mid-line-4","title":"Painting: Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Mid-Line #4","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e, \u003cem\u003eMid-Line #4,\u003c\/em\u003e 2024, an original Watercolour on Paper measuring 30\" x 22.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this artwork on paper is framed. The painting can be shipped framed or removed from the frame and shipped in a mailing tube. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe original painting was on view at the Gallery at the J in March 2024. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across watercolour paper. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArtwork from my \"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\" painting series is in the permanent collections of the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Bank of Montreal, Altree Developments and private collections in New York and Toronto. \u003c\/h3\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46744600707310,"sku":null,"price":900.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/Motherhood_Hit_Me_Like_a_Train_Mid-Line_4_2024_on_view_at_the_Gallery_at_the_J_in_March_2024_framed.jpg?v=1752180631"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-half-speed-2","title":"Painting: Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Half Speed #2","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e, Half Speed #2, 2024, 12 x 12,\" an original Watercolour on Canvas painting.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Half Speed #1 is an original 2024 painting from Rachael Grad’s ongoing and deeply personal series that reflects the complex, physical, and emotional terrain of motherhood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreated by rolling a toy train through watercolour across canvas, this small-scale piece captures the tension between momentum and fatigue. The “half speed” concept evokes slowed-down motion, mirroring the exhaustion and fragmentation often experienced by new parents—yet the composition remains vibrant and full of energy, speaking to the persistence and creativity that emerge in moments of stillness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePainting Medium \u0026amp; Technique:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWatercolour on gallery-wrapped canvas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePainted using toy trains\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRich, layered textures formed in short, deliberate sessions—echoing a caregiver’s interrupted time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReady to hang unframed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eArtwork Details\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal, one-of-a-kind artwork\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSize: 12″ × 12″ × 1\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSigned by the artist on the back of the painting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComes with a Certificate of Authenticity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShips ready to hang\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this painting on canvas is not framed. Framing is available for an additional fee. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across canvas. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArtwork from my \"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\" painting series is in the permanent collections of the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Bank of Montreal, Altree Developments and private collections in New York and Toronto. \u003c\/h3\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46757609439470,"sku":null,"price":250.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/MotherhoodHitMeLikeaTrainHalfSpeed_2_March2024_12x12_fullview.jpg?v=1752494070"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-half-speed-1","title":"Painting: Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Half Speed #1","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e, Half Speed #1, 2024, 12 x 12,\" an original Watercolour on Canvas painting.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Half Speed #1 is an original 2024 painting from Rachael Grad’s ongoing and deeply personal series that reflects the complex, physical, and emotional terrain of motherhood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreated by rolling a toy train through watercolour across canvas, this small-scale piece captures the tension between momentum and fatigue. The “half speed” concept evokes slowed-down motion, mirroring the exhaustion and fragmentation often experienced by new parents—yet the composition remains vibrant and full of energy, speaking to the persistence and creativity that emerge in moments of stillness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePainting Medium \u0026amp; Technique:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWatercolour on gallery-wrapped canvas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePainted using toy trains\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRich, layered textures formed in short, deliberate sessions—echoing a caregiver’s interrupted time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReady to hang unframed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eArtwork Details\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal, one-of-a-kind artwork\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSize: 12″ × 12″ × 1\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSigned by the artist on the back of the painting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComes with a Certificate of Authenticity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShips ready to hang\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this painting on canvas is not framed. Framing is available for an additional fee. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across canvas. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArtwork from my \"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\" painting series is in the permanent collections of the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Bank of Montreal, Altree Developments and private collections in New York and Toronto. \u003c\/h3\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46757766398190,"sku":null,"price":250.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/Motherhood_Hit_Me_Like_a_Train_Half_Speed_1_2024_watercolour_on_canvas_12_x_12_by_Rachael_Grad_full_view_clear.jpg?v=1752498587"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-half-speed-3","title":"Painting: Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Half Speed #3","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e\u003cem\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train\u003c\/em\u003e, Half Speed #3, 2024, 12 x 12,\" an original Watercolour on Canvas painting.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Half Speed #1 is an original 2024 painting from Rachael Grad’s ongoing and deeply personal series that reflects the complex, physical, and emotional terrain of motherhood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCreated by rolling a toy train through watercolour across canvas, this small-scale piece captures the tension between momentum and fatigue. The “half speed” concept evokes slowed-down motion, mirroring the exhaustion and fragmentation often experienced by new parents—yet the composition remains vibrant and full of energy, speaking to the persistence and creativity that emerge in moments of stillness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePainting Medium \u0026amp; Technique:\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWatercolour on gallery-wrapped canvas\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePainted using toy trains\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRich, layered textures formed in short, deliberate sessions—echoing a caregiver’s interrupted time\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eReady to hang unframed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch4\u003eArtwork Details\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal, one-of-a-kind artwork\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSize: 12″ × 12″ × 1\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSigned by the artist on the back of the painting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComes with a Certificate of Authenticity\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShips ready to hang\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this painting on canvas is not framed. Framing is available for an additional fee. Delivery is free within the Greater Toronto area.  Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eThe Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRolling a toy train across my artwork is a not so subtle metaphor for being a mother and artist. Motherhood hit me like a train. My art completely changed course when I became a mother. Toys have taken over my home and my artwork and they are always in mind and in my way. So for this artwork I tried to reverse the ubiquitous toy train and turn it into a paintbrush.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMy children often join in on my painting and drawing, and other artwork. Usually I do not appreciate this overtaking or co-collaboration in my art. Over the years, I have tried to accept that children thrive on creative art projects, so I have started incorporating them into certain projects, both for family fun and for school (theirs and mine!).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo express motherhood in body and gesture, I used a small toy train with six wheels to make fluid marks across canvas. I tested various brush strokes and differing marks with the toy train, including quick pushing of the train to letting it move on its own across the page. I decided on a sweeping arm motion as my one mark. I found the rolling motion to be a more satisfying way of using the train, as compared to dabbing it like a stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis chosen rolling motion required loading up significant water and pigment for each mark run. In order for the paint colour to show up on the paper, I had to heavily press down on the toy train during the entire rolling mark movement. Though I heavily pressed into the train for the duration of the motion, I was usually unable to equally apply the paint throughout the same mark. I made the large arm movements both while standing over the paper and also while sitting or kneeling beside it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe mark making proved to be unexpectedly tiring for my arm and back. Ironically, working in this way caused the same physical exhaustion, aches and pains as those I experienced after childbirth, as a mother to a newborn. I had to work in short bursts and take many breaks while creating this painting. Resting alone and respite from one’s own kids is also highly recommended when mothering.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eRead about my first \u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting, which was sold to a New York art collector, in this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eArtwork from my \"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train\" painting series is in the permanent collections of the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), Bank of Montreal, Altree Developments and private collections in New York and Toronto. \u003c\/h3\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46757777932526,"sku":null,"price":250.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/Motherhood_Hit_Me_Like_a_Train_Half_Speed_3_2024_watercolour_on_canvas_12_x_12_by_Rachael_Grad_full_view_clear.jpg?v=1752498863"},{"product_id":"painting-motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train-sleeper-line-4","title":"Painting - Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train, Sleeper Line #4","description":"\u003ch4\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eMotherhood Hit Me Like a Train,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003cspan\u003eSleeper Train 4, 2024, Watercolour and Ink on Paper, Framed at 28\" x 36.\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h4\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParenting is 24-7 and requires countless all-nighters with babies and children. The Sleeper Train tonal paintings in my “Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train” series reflect the all-consuming, always-on-call role of motherhood. Many nights rocking newborn babies felt like I was on a never-ending train to nowhere. As a new parent I felt derailed as an artist, but always knowing there is a light at the end of the tunnel as the children grow. I eventually found a way to get back on track and set a new route.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis original artwork is painted with black ink on heavy weight watercolor paper. Instead of paint brushes, I use toy trains to make black and grey lines on the white page. The line artwork is matted and framed in a black matt frame. Shown on view in Toronto in May 2024. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003ePlease note that this original painted artwork on paper is framed \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ein a 28” x 36” black matt frame.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDelivery is free within the Greater Toronto area. Other locations may incur additional shipping costs. The painting can be removed from the frame and shipped in a mailing tube. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eRead more about the Inspiration and Background Story of the Abstract Painting \u003cspan\u003ein this Blog Post: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eRecently Sold \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.com\/blogs\/art-blog\/recently-sold-artwork\" title=\"Motherhood Hit Me Like a Train painting sold to a New York art collector\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ePainting\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e","brand":"Rachael Grad","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47226631389422,"sku":null,"price":900.0,"currency_code":"CAD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/files\/Painting_-_Motherhood_Hit_Me_Like_a_Train_Sleeper_Line_4_by_Rachael_Grad_on_view_in_March_2024_for_website.jpg?v=1763564758"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0209\/3858\/8224\/collections\/82f3e62866f8af284d0d61e70f5b8b7a.jpg?v=1644744719","url":"https:\/\/rachaelgrad.myshopify.com\/en-ca\/collections\/motherhood-hit-me-like-a-train.oembed","provider":"Rachael Grad - Contemporary Artist","version":"1.0","type":"link"}