Bay Leaf Tree & A Brush: How a Quarantine in Argentina Awakened the Artist in Me

Four days after landing in Argentina, I had no idea my life was about to change forever.

It was early 2020, and the world was beginning to shut down. What was meant to be a brief trip turned into months of quarantine under martial law. Only one person per household was allowed to leave for essentials. But in the midst of uncertainty and fear, something beautiful was taking root — right under a bay leaf tree in the backyard of a quiet home in Mendoza.

I remember walking into a local grocery store called Jumbo and buying my very first paint set and a few sheets of paper. That spontaneous purchase would become the beginning of my art journey — though at the time, I thought I was just trying to pass the time in lockdown.

Each morning, I opened the doors to the backyard where a single chair sat under that bay leaf tree. With the Andes Mountains in the distance and the blue Argentine sky above me, that little outdoor corner became my sanctuary. I painted. I prayed. I listened. In those sacred moments,

I wasn’t just discovering creativity — I was returning to a part of myself I had almost forgotten.

As a child, I had always loved to draw. My mother was an exquisite artist whose work was known only to family and close friends. Somewhere along the way, life swept me in other directions, but deep in my heart, I always believed the Lord would restore the gifts I had once loved. And that’s exactly what He did — in the stillness of quarantine, with a brush in my hand and a prayer in my heart.

I never imagined this path would lead me to selling my art. I never imagined strangers would want to hang my work in their homes. Today, I create one-of-a-kind pieces, each infused with emotion, faith, and inspiration from the natural world. Every painting tells a story. No two are the same, because every piece is a reflection of a moment — just like that quiet morning under the bay leaf tree.

Mendoza changed me. It reminded me how precious life is, how full of beauty even the simplest things can be — fresh vegetables from the corner store, unhurried conversations with strangers, the crisp mountain air. Art became a way of worship, a form of healing, and a declaration of joy in the middle of chaos.

Bay Leaf Tree & A Brush isn’t just a name. It’s the place where I found peace, purpose, and the courage to create again.

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About the Author: Jessica Jo Saieg , founder of Bay Leaf Tree & Brush, creates one-of-a-kind abstract art pieces that are divinely inspired works of art that beautifully capture the essence of your home or office. With an eye for detail and a heart rooted in faith, Jessica transforms each commission into a timeless keepsake, blending artistic skill with spiritual inspiration. Her unique style brings warmth, meaning, and personality to every piece, making it more than just art—it’s a reflection of your story. If you would like Jessica to create a custom piece for you, contact her at bayleaftreeandbrush@gmail.com