Art Friends

Several of my friends are talented artists who are very passionate about their work. Two of them, Dassie and Chana, are being featured as part of an exhibit in a local gallery this month, and I was fortunate enough to attend the opening reception this week.

The reception was held midweek at a gallery that is not exactly in my neighborhood. I was tired and busy that evening. I definitely did not feel like heading out in the 90+ degree heat and humidity, but these two artists are friends who mean something to me. Both Dassie and Chana have produced artwork that beautify the walls of my home. As friends, they have celebrated occasions with me. I’ve visited them at their studios, and I enjoy their company. I admire them for being courageous enough to share their work. So, I made the effort to show up for them, and I was so glad I did.

The main thing is to be moved, to love, to hope, to tremble, to live.

—Auguste Rodin

When I arrived at the reception, I found my friends immediately as I entered the gallery. It was wonderful to see Dassie and Chana in their element, discussing their work and receiving accolades for it.

Dassie has been painting almost all of her life. For a long time, she specialized in watercolors but more recently she uses bright and color-rich acrylics to paint beachscapes, flowers, and other scenes that strike her. The featured painting on a flyer advertising one of her other recent exhibits was a snow-covered row of Boston brownstones. Although she recently celebrated her 80th birthday, Dassie’s youthful spirit and attitude shine through in her art.

For Chana, her commitment to art re-doubled after she underwent breast cancer treatment more than 10 years ago. The cancer is thankfully gone, but Chana’s work is thriving. Her primary medium is pastels, and her love of animals is clear from the content of her work.

If you have friends who create art, ask them about it. Support their efforts when you can. You will likely be rewarded with both deeper friendships and art that speaks to your soul.