"Compline", Oil on panel 64" x 48"
"Compline", Oil on panel 64" x 48" (detail)
I'm really happy to say that my painting "Compline" will be part of an upcoming show at Haynes Galleries in Nashville, TN.
"Celebrating the Portrait as Art"
Haynes Galleries, Nashville, TN
April 18th to May 24th, 2014
Opening reception is Friday April 18th, 5:00 to 7:30
I'm particularly happy that this painting will be in the show because this is part of a series of paintings that's been the focus of much of my current work. I'm exploring parenthood and the joys, responsibilities and sorrows that come with nurturing another life. Some of these paintings involve the loss of children; some involve the point where one becomes a parent; some involve nurturing your own parents; and some focus on the happiness and freedom of being a child.
About the title: "Compline" is the term used for an ancient liturgical service which comes before bedtime. Basically, the service consists of your nightly prayers. I've read that it's the custom in many monasteries to begin the "great silence" after Compline; you can't speak to anyone until morning. Compline, therefore, is your last chance to speak before the darkness.
If the darkness is coming and this is your last chance to speak, what will you say? I hope it will involve gratitude.
The rest of this concept... well, I suppose that's up to your interpretation of this painting.
