" I am constant. . .

As the northern star."    Written by Shakespeare to be spoken by Julius Caesar,  and my favorite iteration, sung by Joni Mitchell (A Case of You). 

My January/February silence could have very well been predicted by those who know me well.  I see several are nodding YES!  The heft of winter's hibernation and weather (!) brings about hyper-focus and dedication to work - that which has been solicited and other work that is simply done, like the painting featured below - I believe she will continue to be a muse as she grows and do hope I will continue to have the privilege to paint her:

Finley in Washington  .  oil on canvas  .  11" x 14"

A candid shot after a day of sightseeing in our nation's capital provided the inspiration - the abundance of opportunity, wisdom and delight grandparents can provide is, as they say, priceless.  This lucky young lady is a darling recipient of all that.  Often, when I paint those I've never met, I ask for a few words of description - not of their exterior attributes, but of their interior being.  I hope it won't surprise you to know these words were shared:  intelligent, observant, thoughtful, fun. 

 

Then there are times you paint a little in the dark, so to speak - posthumously, filled with all the longing, remembrance and love a client is willing to share with you.  Naturally, you're called upon to do your very best to honor memory, to pay reverence to a life and legacy of deep meaning.  Photo reference can inform to a degree - black and white, mostly from a different time and place - I willingly admit that it's an emotional and painterly challenge.  Listening carefully to your client helps to arrive at something you can both feel good about, as we are all keenly aware that past memories are singular and sacred to those who are left to carry on without their loved one. 



 

Antoinette Eva Miller Wahlert Burke  .  oil on panel  .  14" x 11"

 

She was a beloved mother, a woman as purely grand as her name indicates.  A cheerful countenance and loving nature being the impressions carved most truly into her daughter's heart.  Now this painting is to be passed to her daughter, carrying the same measure of unconditional love whose soft reflections will surely radiate.   

 

"The story of love is not important.   What is important is that one is capable of love.  It is perhaps the only glimpse we are permitted of eternity."  ~ Helen Hayes