When Artwork Has Meaning For You

Rafting Up 20"x30" oil on canvas

People often ask me why I paint. Part of it is the challenge. Another part is that I like to make things, creating something out of nothing has a huge appeal. But there's another reason. I like to help people. And when I can create something for them that has a special meaning, then I feel like I've done what I'm meant to do.

How does that meaning come about for us as viewers of a painting? Usually it's because the subject of the painting brings back a special memory for you.  It might be about a place that is or was special for your family. That was the case with the painting of Little Whaleboat Island, below.  Maybe it's the cottage or camp where you spent every summer of your childhood. Or the campground that your family visited every year. Or the boat you used to sail with your favorite aunt and uncle.

Little Whaleboat Island  oil on canvas

Or perhaps it's an activity that everyone in your family remembers fondly. That was the case with Rafting Up, at the top of this post. Though only one of the families in that painting owns the original, I created reproductions for their children, and all the other boat owners (including my own family). If I remember correctly, there are nine Rafting Up giclee prints hanging on the walls of people who have fond memories of that afternoon in Seal Bay on Vinalhaven. What an honor it was to paint that! And a pleasure to see the joy it brings daily to all those people.

House on Monhegan 8"x10" oil on canvas

Maybe a place from your travels has a special meaning for you. I know that happens to me. Scenes from Maine's coast come to mind, and especially my visits to Monhegan Island. The first was a day trip, and I later learned where to stay, explored the island, and even taught a workshop there. Any painting of Monhegan brings that all back for me.

Sparkle 10"x8" oil on canvas

Owning a boat often leads to owning subsequent boats, as the family gets bigger. I was thrilled one afternoon when visiting a new friend's home to see paintings of each of their previous sailboats proudly displayed. They had each one painted by a local artist and were proud to show them off and tell us about their adventures on each boat.

By now you've figured out that I love creating custom paintings to showcase memories of special places and events. If you'd like one for your family, please let me know via email or the contact form here on my website. And for more information on the commissioning process, check out this page.