The pieces above were commissioned in autumn, 2011 for hanging prior to a family Christmas dinner. The timing was perfect. I had been going full tilt and needed a rest. For me, that means concentrating on one piece at a time. Ten days is a long time, and one month seems endless. I met the clients at their home and we had so much in common, we had dinner with them prior to presenting the pieces. It was a fabulous experience in that I was able to translate the warmth of their personalities and their home into the work. Very often, we concern ourselves with the nature of the space in which a canvas is to be placed. We take into consideration dimensions, proportions, and colour, light and so on. I prefer to know who lives there. What they are like. What moves them.

It facilitates the painting of a piece with purpose when you know the true nature of the client. After all, the pieces should become heirlooms. They should resonate and ignite conversations and add to the overall experience of life.

So we have new friends. I like to think the commission was the second most important element of this experience.
The dimensions of the two pieces above are 40x72(Emozioni Series) and 60x36 (Giardini Naxos Series) .

To all who read this: have a wonderful 2012 full of good health, happiness and prosperity! May this year bring many new and lasting friendships-the true riches in life!