Description

The scene captures the essence of a serene summer afternoon at Central Park's Sailboat Pond.

The skyline of 5th Avenue rises in the background, a majestic contrast to the lush green trees that frame the view. People sit on benches where they peacefully enjoy a perfect day, while miniature sailboats glide gracefully across the still, reflective water. The boathouse stands elegantly on the opposite shore, its reflection mingling with the boats on the pond's mirror-like surface. In the shade, Dad stands behind, a quiet observer of the beauty he has immortalized.

This painting is Dad's last in a long series created over the years of this cherished spot. It's a place that holds a special place in my heart, where countless memories were made.

My brother, sister and I spent endless hours here, launching our miniature boats on their grand voyages, feeling like explorers embarking on epic quests. The pond was our ocean, and we were its fearless captains, chasing our boats from one side to the other, lost in our world of adventure. Back then, life was simple.

I remember how so many years ago, in the 1960s, when we came to the park as a poor immigrant family and how none of that mattered. In our hearts, we were dressed-down millionaires, living in a paradise where the joy of each moment far outweighed any worries we had. Of course there were worries, but those were most felt by my parents - we were just kids then.

This painting doesn't just capture a scene; it captures a time of innocence and wonder, of a family finding happiness in the simplest of things. Dad's brushstrokes bring all those memories flooding back, reminding me of the beauty and warmth of those simple summer days. 💖

My Red Sailboat... 
I always brought along my favorite Red sailboat to Sailboat Pond. It wasn't motorized, just a simple sailboat with a solid wood hull, mast with sails, and a metal keel. Once launched, I needed to chase it wherever the wind blew - running around the pond and cheering it along. Sometimes, it got stuck in the shallow waters near the pond shore. A crowd would lend a hand to get it loose with a tree branch or some other trick, and it was on its way again - Sailing Away - Yay! 😊

On this day in 2008, Dad was 86 years old and still going strong at Central Park Pond. 💖

Through My Father's Eyes