This painting is a commission from a girl I went to school with. Because of certain “life happenings” that we sort of have in common, she reached out to me to paint a special piece for a very special someone in her life. This is quite an honor for me to have been able to work with her on this project.
She was very specific. Although she did not realize it at the time, she really had a clear image of what she was looking for, in terms of how she wanted it to feel. She just was unable to clearly articulate it at first.
We exchanged a number of emails. I sent her almost every image I had ever taken of paths in the woods one or two at a time. This worked very well. The feedback she shared as she reacted to the various photos helped me to narrow it down to a sense of colours and the overall feeling.
Then I began the work. Irises from my garden. A Rhododendron from my garden and two from the internet. The rail fence from a photo I had taken of the Irving Nature Park etc., etc,
She saw the painting today for the first time and she smiled from ear to ear. It was exactly what she was hoping for. May I just say PHEW! I am so grateful and excited that she loves it and has confidence that the recipient of her very thoughtful gift will also love it!
I am anxiously awaiting the reaction.
Helen Shideler, CSPWC 