I had in mind to re-blog this post and then I noticed there has been a call out from The Altered Page for bloggers to consider re-posting today as a group effort...perfect synchronicity!
Florie and I have been friends for years, meditating group, showing our work at galleries and juried events. We have helped one another hanging shows both physically and emotionally. Our best times have been in meeting for coffee and updating one another in our art practice as well as sharing some finished pieces.
We haven't met as regularly this past year as Florie has struggled with health issues. I do know she has been keeping a journal and using oil pastels with her precious energy. She didn't want to end but rather stay and paint more and more but she past away late evening on July 3rd. I drove by her home today and saw her car parked outside which gave me a smile but I know in reality our coffee dates are over and I will miss her.
Below is one of her magical pieces that I'm proud to own.
"Synchronicity" by Florie ...canvas measures 6"x6" acrylic. Florie is inspired by
petraglyphs
(sp) and has visited cave sites here and in Mexico. She teaches ESL in
the evenings and paints as often as possible. Participating in Open
Studio was a very big deal and it was my pleasure to visit and to buy
one of her pieces. I've known Florie for years, we go to meditation
together, we had a show together at a local gallery with another friend
Deena entitled Sacred Vows, Sacred Visions. When we can manage it, we
meet for a coffee date and time just flies! October 2008.
I am so sorry about your friend. but how wonderful art is, it lives beyond our human life, to bring joy to others.
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree. Florie's art is a sweet part of my day!
DeleteWhat a great friend to have enjoyed. I'm sure you'll miss her. This piece has such bold colours. Wonder where you have it?
ReplyDeleteThis piece is small but holds a large spot in the living area on top of a glass chest of books!
Deletewhat a beautiful tribute to your friend... makes me realize how much more I want to create before I die. so thank you for this in more than one way. how wonderful that you have this piece of hers to remember her by... and seeing her car in the drive must have been bittersweet..
ReplyDeleteCaterina, We all could use reminders of using our time for what we love. Her car has a bumper sticker speaking of wild horses so her joy is still in the world!
DeleteRest in peace Florie...Your images and heart and expression and soul live on...
ReplyDeleteOur gallery show together, you me and Florie was a great adventure...joyful memories!
DeleteThe good red energy shines through in this piece you have of hers. Passages...Thanks you for reposting this tribute.
ReplyDeleteShe had a colorful palette and a wide range of materials...no matter the size, her pieces commanded attention. Mostly she loved making art!
DeleteOh it's hard to loose a friend. Sometimes friends understand us better than family. I'm sure you enriched each other and I'm grateful you have that great piece of hers and the memories to keep forever. I remember meeting Florie - lovely lady!
ReplyDeleteOne of my treasures is her hand made wedding guest book that she presented to us, filled with notes and signatures of family and friends!
DeleteSo much energy in Florie's horse painting. Her life force lives on through her art and your precious memories of her.
ReplyDeletelouciao, I feel so much better having shared her art...it is true this art is filled with energy and life!
DeleteOh goodbye, but just for now, Florie.
ReplyDeleteVery meaningful to you, having her art, I know. One little thing we leave of ourselves to the loves in our life, that no one else could give. So special!
Babs, Thank you for so clearly understanding the goodbye part. This "Synchronicity" is with me every day!
Deletewhat a wonderful tribute to a dear friend - the painting is absolutely wonderful xo
ReplyDeleteJeane, Florie was excited about making art...we could easily uhhhh and ahhh over simple marks and colors...always fun!
DeleteThats a good friend indeed...love that she lives on through her works and these memories . Love the work you have of hers ...and the fact she was interested in Pertraglyphs.
ReplyDeleteAnd Maryanne ... I love your work at the previous post. .. just wonderful..enjoy seeing your work on Pinterest and Tumblr too.
Lovely post and thoughts of Florie; she will live on with you as the magical horse will keep her spirit present.
ReplyDeleteMaryanne, so sorry to hear about your friend's passing, but we will meet our people again
ReplyDeleteHer painting is vibrant and I know you cherish it
I wish you comfort and peace