september 11, 2011 (for JAM); oil on canvas; 24" x 24"; Rico 2011
About two years ago, I had the pleasure of meeting a fellow painter while visiting NYC. During that time I've watched his work make a quantum leap, seen him get some important residencies, and some measure of success come his way. I have little doubt of his future success. He's one of the people I look most forward to seeing again when I go up next month, and I hope we can take our acquaintance to friendship in time. Last year, I also learned that he was a first-responder ten years ago today. As I learned his story, his work took on new resonance, and my own perceptions and opinions of the events of that day shifted. There will be a lot of chatter today; the news media is having a field day and I don't want to add to the noise. But it is good to remember the examples of humanity in the face of monstrosity, and to put faces and names with many unsung individuals who had courage and compassion then, and who live with love instead of bitterness and ideology now. James, this one's for you.
No comments:
Post a Comment