Generations in Bavaria

My friend asked me if I would paint a scene for his grandfather that had reference to a recent trip they had taken to Germany as a family. Mac describes his grandfather as one of the most influential people in his life. He wanted to give him a meaningful gift that would evoke happy memories of their time together in Europe. While a young soldier in WWII, he served in this part of Germany. Through the years his grandpa never spoke much about his war experiences. However, he was anxious to return to Germany with his family on this recent vacation.

Mac gave me a DVD that had been compiled of their trip as reference material. He suggested a few thoughts about what the subject of the painting might be, but gave me total freedom to paint what I felt would bring joy to his grandpa.

As I viewed the DVD, I could tell that Grandpa and his little great grandson had not been very close previously, but that on this trip they really bonded. In one video scene, the little g-son hurrying to catch up to the group, used grandpa's cane in an affectionate, yet amusing manner. In my mind's eye I could see grandpa and g-son walking together into the black forest of Bavaria ... thence this scene was born.

Several years ago I had painted a scene of my son and g-son walking together down a mountain path in tribute to fathers who were really trying to make a difference in the lives of their children. This would be a similar type of painting. I had also recently done a study with Jerry Yarnell that used a similar setting and technique.

I appreciate so much the opportunity to create art for my friends and family! I hope this brings joy and fond memories into the lives of Mac's family through the years. Thanks, Mac, for the privilege to help with this project and for your thoughtful gift for your grandfather.

The Ship Brooklyn

I have had the recent privilege of participating in the design and construction of a replica of the cutter ship "Brooklyn" at this is the Place Heritage Park in Salt Lake City. It will be a "hands on" experience for children to learn about this "almost forgotten" part of the Mormon Pioneer story.

238 east coast pioneers left New York aboard the "Brooklyn" about the same time as Brigham Young left Nauvoo. They sailed around the horn of South America and landed six months later in Yerba Buena, California (today's San Francisco). Many of them continued on east to Salt Lake, but some stayed in California. Some were even involved in stimulating the California Gold Rush @ Sutter's Mill in 1849.

I was also asked to do a painting of the Brooklyn for the display. I did a lot of research to understand more about this type of ship before attempting to paint it. It has been a fascinating experience for me. I have been humbled as I have come to know of the sacrifices made and hardships endured by these early pioneers. Their faith and devotion is inspiring.

My hope is that this painting will be a catalyst to help us remember our heritage and to reverence those who have gone before. We are certainly the beneficiaries of their commitment and sacrifice. Acrylic on canvas 36"x24".