My good friend Marsha Marks, author-turned-movie producer, is making a short movie for which I am creating a series of stills. Originally the plan was to use several of my existing illustrations—personal work from years ago, all painted in gouache—but as the project has evolved, we’re including fewer and fewer of those original paintings. Instead, I’m creating new work which fits both the format and the subject matter more precisely.

The yet-to-be-titled movie is a hopeful commentary on the ups and downs of marriage: a cycle of love, hurt, and healing. The images posted here are a bit grim, but (spoiler alert), never fear, this particular movie has a happy ending.