However, the white plaster cast that completely encases her right arm is a constant reminder to be more careful. To protect the plaster from dirt and damage, the doctor has rolled a net bandage over it. It's a practical but uninspiring sight.
Sophie loves tattoos. She has some on a few areas of her skin. But now her right arm with the white plaster is an empty space. Like a new chapter waiting to be filled. That's where Chris comes in. Chris is always up for spontaneous and creative ideas, and when he visits Sophie, he finds a picture of a red rose on his mobile phone with a broad grin. The flower is framed by green leaves but has no thorns. ‘Why not spice up your plaster a little?’ he asks with a wink.
Chris takes a fine-tip marker and sets to work with full concentration. The area above the back of Sophie's hand becomes the stage for the red rose, which slowly takes shape. Chris traces each line precisely, bringing the flower to life and adding gently curving green leaves.
A rose symbolises not only beauty, but also resilience. Its purity harmonises wonderfully with the white colour of the plaster cast, which is often associated with healing and new beginnings. The lack of thorns also hides the painful aspects and the disability caused by the immobilised right arm. Perhaps the artist also wants to express that something tender and beautiful can emerge even in difficult times; it could be a kind of message of encouragement.
When Chris has finished the work, Sophie can't stop smiling. The rose is perfect. But the netting has to be rolled over it again. However, it only partially covers the artistic work. And it still lets enough shine through to give a hint of the rose's beauty and enhance the allure of what is hidden. Sophie now looks at her arm with new eyes. The plaster is no longer just an obstacle, but also a canvas, an opportunity for creativity and expression.
The artwork accompanied Sophie for several weeks. But then came the day when the plaster cast was removed. Instead, she was given a shorter forearm cast. Sophie had chosen green bandages this time to give the cast a fresh, lively touch. The new bandage no longer had any net. It was now a new phase. Rather sober, smooth, without decoration.
