Another Portrait of Naomi Along with Some Other Thoughts...

Hello,

Earlier this year I completed this portrait of my daughter, Naomi, it has all the aspects I love exploring in a painting, a particularly challenging light effect, a use of expressive color, and my beloved daughter wrapped in the first quilt I ever completed.

In June this painting graced the cover of the local magazine, Elan.  I was honored to have Natalia Megas write an article about my career path and work.

And today, as I write this post, I feel fortunate to be an artist and to create on a daily basis.  Especially as the person in my life who had a profound influence on the interests I have cultivated as an adult is no longer here. 

Last week my grandmother passed away, and it is her influence on me as a child that led me to be committed to “making and creating” my way through life.  I have been thinking a lot about her since I heard the news that she had died and I keep asking myself to remember the various ways she shaped me.

One experience stands out to me the most.  It took place when I was nine years old and I was staying with her for an extended visit.  When I arrived the only clothes packed were play clothes, nothing nice enough to wear to church.  This was unacceptable to Grammer (what the grandkids called her), however she immediately solved the issue by sewing a quick shirt and skirt ensemble for me.  I still remember the blue calico pattern of the top, it was one of her fabrics she would use in her quilts. Grammer was a quilting fanatic at the time, and through this experience, I learned that it was possible to make and create your way out of problem or situation.

My desire to always have some sort of sewing project going can be directly related to her influence.  I will miss my grandmother, however I know every time I sit down to quilt or sew, I will be with her in spirit. 

This post is more personal than I typically like to publish, however, I am hopeful by sharing these thoughts and feelings I will better be able to metabolize the grief I am currently experiencing and begin creating again.

Thank you for reading,  Liz