Description

In this piece, Dad captures a powerful scene of contrasts with his expressive India ink.

A homeless person sleeps on the street, their form blending into the shadows, while nearby, a couple stands in tender embrace. Perhaps these lovers are figments of the sleeper's dreams, or maybe Dad intended to highlight the stark contrast between their situations. This juxtaposition, so poignant and raw, showcases the duality of human existence.

Dad had a unique ability to see the beauty in life's opposites. Where others might overlook or even disdain, he found profound meaning. His art often reflected this search for contrasts, presenting them as the natural harmony of life. He viewed nature without judgment, considering everything as part of God's grand design. He often said, "God is the greatest artist," a simple yet profound statement that encapsulated his life-view.

In this drawing, Dad beautifully captures the essence of opposites. The lovers and the sleepers, both reflecting different facets of the human experience, are presented with equal tenderness and attention.

Over the years, I have grown to deeply appreciate Dad's work, especially for its personal focus. His drawings are filled with humanity, each character portrayed with empathy and insight.

Dad had an extraordinary gift for truly seeing people, and this piece is a testament to his ability to find beauty and meaning in the everyday contrasts of life.

On this day in 1971, when he was 49 years old - during one of his many New York City journeys - he sat with his drawing tablet and pen and found the contrasting beauty of opposites in Lovers & Sleepers. ❤️

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