In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it’s easy for the true purpose to get lost in the trips to the mall. But for me, it always comes down to one thing: giving. This winter, I’ve been lucky enough to paint a number of Christmas commissions; I am tickled to create these gifts of not only time but of sentimental value.
When starting a new commission, I typically paint more than one version of the subject to work on style and composition. But the time invested isn’t just mine; a commission takes effort and planning on the gift giver’s side as well. And while it may be true that it’s faster and easier to buy something online, the payoff of a commission is worth the extra time and effort come Christmas morning.
This year I got a call. An acquaintance had seen my monthly newsletter and got an idea that she wanted to discuss. She wanted to commission a painting of her precious pup for her son away at college, a token of the pet he loves. We made an appointment, photographed the pooch, got her approval, and I went to right to work. And I happily delivered the finished framed painting to her door yesterday. If only I could be a fly on the wall for the unwrapping!
What’s so special is that a painting keeps giving joy long after one outgrows clothes or styles change; it’s a gift from the heart that will be with you for years to come. Here’s to hoping that all of you get that gift this year, a thoughtful one from the heart. I know I already did; the joy I received from painting these presents was a gift in itself. Merry Christmas.
Oh, and check it out! I have a brand new website. Now it is mobile-friendly and up-to-date. Let me know what you think, and of course, if you see any paintings you like!
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