As the last few years of hard work and artistic development are reaching fruition, in the sense that the work itself is becoming more confident and assured, I have found that sales are increasing and awareness that I even exist is the rather happy result. I am by no means self sufficient yet, but with luck and the help of my best friend, Mary, we do hope some day to be able to pay our bills on time and reduce our somewhat long working days. We still get excited by a single sale, whether its a large painting or a few cards. They are as we believe 'small victories' and certainly give me more confidence to reach ever deeper and produce work that I am proud of.
All this said, like most Artists pursuing their 'selfish' fate, they would achieve very little without the support, encouragement and hard work of their loved ones. i have known and loved Mary for 12 years now. She has often settled my painting supply bills, driven for miles to deliver work that was worth less than the cost of the petrol, spent hours day after day building my web site..... The list could go on and on. I have paid her very little. I do pick up the bar tab but her wine is cheap and my whiskeys large. I do give her paintings that I am dissatisfied with....One might say she has the worst collection of MR work around. To add insult to injury, this year I finally found the courage to ask for her hand in marriage hoping that the rest of her body might approve also. I am glad to say it did. I am hoping that the work i produce will in my own way exemplify, the optimistic and ever growing love I have for this friend and that my sales will in some way go toward a furthering of an exciting life shared.. up until now she has only received paintings whilst giving in return the most precious jewel, her Time.
Much respect to Her.
