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Fear and Courage

Fear is a Reaction, Courage is a Choice


I am a total WW2 buff!

Movies, books, stories and old photographs on WW2 are my passion. Another passion is for great animation. So, you can imagine how I felt when Netflix came out with an animated series set against the backdrop of World War II. “The Liberator: One World War II Soldier’s 500-Day Odyssey.” It is a historical drama, an adaptation of Alex Kershaw’s book based on the true story of the United States Army officer Felix Sparks and his infantry unit.


“No -Name Pink” (in Process) – Acrylic Markers on Canvas Pad, 210 x 297 mm / 8.3 x 11.7 inch

@ Barbara Adler Art 2022

Besides recommending a fantastic animated historical series, I wish to share with you a sentence said by one of the characters that for me sums up the heroism of the liberating soldiers of WW2: “Fear is a reaction – Courage is a decision”. We all feel fear when faced with a compromising situation. It is how we respond that makes a difference. That split second can change the situation.


Let’s rephrase the saying "Fear is a Reaction – Courage is a Choice.”


What is the difference between “Decision” and “Choice”? A “decision” is a final determined response versus a “choice” which is an ongoing continuing process. The difference between a comma and a period in a sentence. A decision is “full stop”, with a comma, we take a breath, think or explain and then continue. No doubt, in war one must make not easy choices and hard, instant decisions.

“I C U” – Printable Digital Illustration @Barbara Adler Art 2022


There are very few moments in art for decision making. It is all a process full of choices. We choose where to put our first mark on the paper. If we are not happy with a line, we can erase the line and draw a new one elsewhere. The “choice” in art is the “dialogue”, where to put a form, how to draw a line, which colors to use and where to place them within the composition. Worst case scenario, crumple up the paper, throw it away and start anew. It is all part of the process.


Everybody needs art, especially in these crazy times. There is Art for everyone’s state of mind, desires and tastes. Flatter me! Contact me if you would like to personalize a special occasion. Nothing like a meaningful, personal painting or drawing as a gift.


All the works on this blog are Printable and for sale. They are Barbara Adler originals. I love talking about my art and WW2 movies, so feel free to DM to converse and purchase my art, making it yours.








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