Silence at the airport by Charla Bloom

This portrait is of my grandfather, Roman, who lives in Germany. Although we live far apart, we stay close through the memories we’ve made here in Brisbane. The airport has become a meaningful place to me. It’s where I’ve felt both the joy of reunion and the sadness of goodbye.

This moment shows one of our farewells. He’s always happy to be here, to spend time with family, and to travel, but the weight of parting is something we both feel. The tags on his suitcase show the years he’s visited, a small detail that speaks to the passing of time and the depth of our connection.

The painting invites viewers to reflect on how travel can carry more than just people and luggage. It holds emotion, love, and the quiet ache that comes with distance.