In 2017 I lost my husband suddenly. He was 37. I was 44 at the time. Our children were 5 and 7.
There is a good two years I really cannot recall in the aftermath. The analogy to a fog is an understatement. I was carried and cared for by family and some really tried and true old as well as new friends. Not to mention my kids holding strong against all odds.
Then at some point I picked up a paint brush. I had to get out of my head. Think about something seemingly brainless- something other than our loss. The future I would never have with the love of my life. The events and experiences and growth he would never see our kids go through.
It was a miracle of the most miraculous kind. It did so much more than I could have hoped for. It showed my children their mother moving again. Thinking, creating, smiling here and there at first- and then more and more. I poured all of my hardest feelings in to my experiments- I definitely did not consider myself an artist at the point or my pieces artistic. However, I ventured on to social media and showed the world what was transferring through me. And they Loved it. Supported it. More importantly, Felt it. In the years since I have cried with my clients, hugged them, shared darkness and laughter and just plain loved them. Made amazing connections that endure to this day.
So next month, May 2021, I open my very first shop featuring my artistic hand painted furniture and canvas art. And this is the beginning of sharing this chapter with you -
Lori
Like your pieces, your uniqueness manifests bangs and bumps and wear and tears over the years before coming into the talented hands of a master artist. Unlike them, you are as yet unfinished. Congratulations on the next chapter of your colorful life. May its author and illustrator thrive in her new setting, and may old furniture continue to be reanimated by her talents, and old and new friends blessed by her heart and art.
Such a tragic story turned beautiful. And your art is unlike anyone's I've ever seen before. Thank you for pushing through and now joyfully sharing your talent with the world. Can't wait to see your shop. PS The article where you were featured came out last month in Salem Life newspaper. Next issue comes out the end of this week, so make sure you stock up on issues to share with the many, many people who are rooting for your success.
I know Tommy is so proud of you and cheering you on! You ARE an artist and a well loved one at that! :)