Begin Again
This is a large commission painting that I hung recently. (Thank you Beth for believing in me enough to set me loose on a painting for you!) Hanging this was all about beginning again and getting back t0 the business of doing what I love and of course that is what my father would want me to do. 48″x48″ commissioned by Beth MacLean for her office.
It is hard for me to begin again. My dad died just over two weeks ago and I have struggled to write a blog post, since my last passionate one nothing seems as important. The ordinariness of the past two weeks feels like an insult to the intensity of the previous month. The every-day-ness is a affront to the powerful love and the concentration of feeling that went before. But likewise (and in contradiction to what I just wrote) the ordinariness is comforting. The sun sets, the sun rises and a new day begins. Work needs doing, groceries need to be bought, the car needs service, the dog whines for a walk….. The truth is my father wouldn’t have it any other way. He was a doer, a hard worker, someone who got things done. And so my work continues and this blog that he was so devoted to continues. My dad was possibly the first person to read my blog each time I sent it out, and while he rarely commented publicly he almost always sent a text or an email of encouragement and praise. That’s what is hard now – my dad was one of my biggest fans – forever cheering me on. And now he’s not there. NO, that’s not true; his legacy in my veins is made of stronger stuff than that! I hear his encouragement still in my ear, in my heart. So I guess I better get back to work.
Thanks to all of you who sent your kind words and encouragement over the past two weeks, you have buoyed my spirit and I am grateful.
Because commissions can be scary, I painted 2 paintings so Beth could choose. This one (similar but different) is now hanging in the Ranch dining-hall waiting for the the right home… maybe you? 48″x48″
Sweta Ojha
This is one of the most powerful posts I’ve read. My heart goes out to you for what has happened but more than that, you inspire me and teach me about life and strength so amazingly. I wish you strength and may blessings prevail over you always.
Laura Thorpe
Amen, dearest sister, amen.
Beth
Thank you Lisa for sharing your gifts with me and with all who see/enjoy/experience your art and your talents!!
Pamela
Words really are not my strong suit, so feel my friendship and know that you, your art, and your family will always be a part of mine.
Valerie Hill
We all share your grief. I lost my Dad in 2008. He was a mathematician who had no interest in art, but the last year of his life he bought some inexpensive art supplies and began painting these wonderful, primitive, mystical paintings of his life and memories. Each of his children is now privileged to own them.
Lise
Big love sweet friend!r
jane semrau
Lisa, bless you, love the prints, loved the words, your a special lady. thank you jane
Kitty
Well, getting back to work just proves how much your artistic talent needs you. I was looking for something to hang on a door – I will stop by the Ranch, I may be interested.
Your words and image reached deep in my heart, once again! ❤️❤️❤️
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