This heartfelt gift found its way to the new home of K. Jane McClure and Bill Eggerman. The portrait captures the essence of my beloved grandkids on canvas, a cherished memory finally made its journey to Anchorage.
Jane and Bill dedicated many years of their lives to the Bethel Hospital, where they tirelessly served approximately 15,000 children in the field of pediatrics. Their commitment and compassion have left an indelible mark on the lives they touched. These beautiful souls radiate love and patience.
Images of my grandchildren L-R: Stephanie, Pamela, Esme, PamElla, and my son Aaron. Mixed media: Walrus Ivory, Whale Baleen, Kuskokwim Driftwood, Acrylic on Canvas.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude not only to them but also to Kerry Cobbledick, my informal agent. It was Kerry who initially hired me from a pool of employees at the Yukon Kuskokwim Delta Hospital, making this heartwarming gesture possible.
K. Jane McClure with her dog and Bill Eggerman at my kitchen studio.
Creating simplicity from complexity, I labored over this piece. My tendency to delve into detailing and trying different options. Stephanie, granddaughter, also tried to help with her sister’s fingernail toy polish while I was not looking. Acrylic is very forgiving, so I was able to wipe it off even after it had dried off, but she is now definately part of the work.
Ah, behold my gray hair, a testament to the journey I have traversed. Prayer and luck have been my companions, allowing me to tread this far along life’s winding path. Along the way, countless friends and customers crossed paths, their kindness indirectly sustaining my family when they purchased my art. And so, like many skilled artisans, we emerge, survivors of yet another year.
Children, those delicate vessels of wonder, absorb our every action, mirroring our essence as they journey toward adulthood. They are precious gifts, entrusted with the legacy of our wisdom and the lessons learned from life’s pitfalls. Imperfect, yet authentic, I implore you: preserve your words. Let kindness and gentleness be your legacy, for these tender souls will carry your traits long after you’ve departed.
You can approximate the first photo of Stephanie and how much she has grown with longer hair and few more teeth.
Portrait of Grandkids by John Oscar
Video comilation of the work.