Welcome Home: Art as Rememberance

Every painting is a memory or premonition rooted in love, healing, and experimentation. This painting specifically held a deeper meaning for me. It was a memorial painting. I was commissioned to make a portrait for a family who lost their son, brother, cousin, and friend. Grief is something that impacts us all. We have all lost someone close to us, and knowing how sadness can take over, I wanted to create something beautiful. Something lively that honored Vidaurris’ spirit in the best way. I wanted his loved ones to feel the good times, laughs, smiles, jokes, and things about him that brought them comfort.

I wanted the painting to feel joyous, happy, and welcoming. That quiet moment when you walk in the door, relaxed with a deep breath and a smile. In doing so, I chose to use bright colors similar to a sunset, blue, yellow, orange, and red, highly saturated, so there was a glow. Reflecting on my reference photo, I used purple in his skin tones to create a marriage of colors between the red and blue. I kept the face in its original form, honoring Vidaurri’s smile. The brightest part of the picture, using a stark white, so it can be the focal point.

Creating this memorial painting has been very rewarding and healing. I, too, had to remember the times when I lost those closest to me. I thought about my Granny and how I always want to honor the memories that made me smile and laugh. I felt that pain, and it turned into something beautiful. I want Vidaurri’s family to know that I created this piece with love, the purest form. 

This piece has now made its way to its new home, and I'm grateful to have been trusted with such a meaningful commission. Creating memorial work reminds me that painting is more than visual storytelling. Sometimes it becomes a way to hold onto someone, even briefly. That responsibility is something I never take lightly.

If you, too, would like me to bring your loved one to life. Please reach out. I’d love to do this again!

Xoxo,

Love