Description

Growing up, Dad’s art was a vibrant part of our home. It was everywhere. I guess that is one of the weird things about having an artist-parent.

I only realized it later, but his paintings were like windows into different worlds, each brushstroke a whisper of his soul.

This watercolor painting captures a waterside home in Cold Spring Harbor, a place where we often spent time together.

The sky is a whitish blue, and the trees stand tall and green, swaying gently with the breeze. A boater is at the water's edge, tying or untying his small skiff, his movements calm and deliberate. This scene feels alive, almost as if you can hear the gentle lapping of the waves and the distant calls of seabirds. Dad had a way of infusing his work with life, making every element feel both vivid and intimate.

Dad's admiration for artists like Dufy is often recognizable in his style. His brushwork had the bold, expressive strokes of the Fauves, the emotive depth of expressionism, and the light-filled beauty of impressionism. His love for these elements shaped his own unique approach to capturing the world around him.

The Tower House (unofficial name) itself, an old structure that had been partially redesigned, stands proudly in this painting. Its history, mingled with Dad's artistic touch, made it seem almost magical. The top of the tower, already removed, hinted at the passage of time and the changes that come with it. This aspect of the painting always made me think about the stories buildings could tell if they could speak.

In this painting, the top tower of the building is already removed. See the 1989 version for the full structure.

Cold Spring Harbor is a historic village in Huntington, New York, known for its picturesque views and rich history. In the distance of the painting, to the right, (largely out of sight) is the renowned Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, its structures set against the serene waters and romantic marine vessels waiting in the harbor. Together, they add a sense of depth and context to the scene. It's as if they stand as silent witnesses to the simple yet profound moment of the boater with his skiff. Dad saw that and once commented, "It is too romantic."

Dad lived just a short distance from this spot. Together, we would travel throughout Long Island, especially along the north shores, searching for places that inspired him to paint. Those journeys were filled with quiet conversations, laughter, and an unspoken bond that grew stronger with each new discovery. The beauty we found was more than just picturesque landscapes; it was the shared experience, the memories we created together.

On this day in 1996, Dad re-found Tower House. ❤️

Through My Father's Eyes