Tuesday, February 14, 2017

"Salutations to Sibs" SOLD
36x24" oil on gallery wrap canvas

But let there be spaces in your togetherness and let the winds of the heavens dance between you. Love one another but make not a bond of love: let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of your souls. 

—Khalil Gibran

I have been a lost ship over most of the past year, adrift from paints and canvas, but happy to be firmly back in port of studio with brushes as oars, anchored firmly in hand. 

Family took precedence last April as my 93-year-old mom came to live with us. Her stay turned out to be a short final voyage as she sailed off into the ether of sunset at the end of September. We were honored to care for her those last months of her life, as this is how families love each other. 

Toni Morrison said, “Your need a whole community to raise a child” but to care for a dying parent, I say, takes an entire family. This is what ultimately led me to this painting “Salutations to Sibs.”

I wasn't consciously aware of what was actually drawing me to paint this alluring sunrise from Martha’s Vineyard. It was only after I finished the piece, that I was struck by how much the harbor scene reminded me of my family each one dropping their anchor to tend to mom in many different ways. 

Boats moored at bay seemed the perfect metaphor for family. Our fleet is composed of a large variety of crafts, some strong and secure, some calm, soulful and gentle, others steadfast and reliable. Siblings may sail through life on different bodies of water scattered around distant shores, yet will always tether together when the day is over, or seas turn into rough stormy waters.

It seems appropriate to post this piece on Valentine’s Day to honor the eight loving vessels in my marina including Bob, Debby, Kitsy, Barb, Mary, Julie, Lolly and Dash. 

I love you all!  
nancy



To see more of my art click here, or one one of these additional links: Online Gallery  Email  • Website  •  Graphic Design Studio • Saatchi Gallery
• Fine Art America

5 comments:

  1. Absolutely stunning Nancy, and a beautiful tribute to your family.

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    1. Thank you, Angela. I'll never stop giving thanks for the gift of familyl

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  2. What a beautiful thought to enhance the beautiful painting by Beautiful YOU, Nancy. So happy to see you painting and posting again. We've missed you. - Dianne

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    1. I can't tell you how much I have missed painting and blogging this past year, Dianne. I alway appreciate your comments and support for my work. Thank you again!

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  3. I LOVE your painting. The thought behind it is beautiful as well. Would you consider selling it?
    I bought one of your paintings once before and it has a special place in my life. Love you guys. Franci Jarrard

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