Description

The scene is Central Park in New York City, at a restaurant that was near the zoo. As I child, I remember walking by it during the many times we would visit the park.

Over the years, I have come to love and appreciate Dad's many drawings and woodcuts because of their personal focus. With paintings, colors, depth, and perspective direct our attention, but here there are only lines and shades of gray - the color is in the characters and situation.

On this day, in 1967, Dad was 45 years old. We were still very much a poor immigrant family who rarely visited restaurants - Mom's cooking was so much better anyway ❤️  Dad sat on a bench facing the diners below, and with his drawing tablet and pen, and captured this simple moment At the Eatery. ❤️

The Drawing Days
I remember Dad leaving early and returning home late, with only his drawing tablet in hand. Inside his tablet were a few sheets of paper, and in his pocket, the drawing instruments - a fountain pen, a small set of colored pencils, maybe a piece of graphite, all held together with a rubber band.

Today, these visions of him walking to and from our home, tablet or easel in hand, stay with me because of their regularity, simplicity, and how he created such beautiful things with so little.

I also sometimes wonder if Mom was lonely while Dad was away on his many artistic journeys, especially during the weekends when she wasn't working. Still, she never complained and always had a welcoming meal ready for him upon his return. She supported him and his creative vision completely. That's true love, and they had it. ❤️

When I look at Dad's art creations, I feel the power of Harmony and Synchrony.

Through My Father's Eyes