Dear Friends,
I learned today that on Tuesday, we lost a good friend, artist and supreme supporter of our little gallery. My good friend, Diane David passed away after a short illness. I am saddened beyond belief and wonder at how this can really be. But even in this dark moment, I can hear Diane’s infectious laugh. She would not let me or anyone else mire themselves in this awful truth. She would want us to pick ourselves up and get on with it!

I know that Diane wanted more than anything to make art. She threw herself into her painting this year harder and better than anyone I know. She taught classes at the gallery, went on an art retreat to Virginia, and took several on-line courses and she pushed herself further and further. Diane painted what she loved…her dogs. llamas, and even an occasional goat or two. She wanted us all to value the silliness all around us. She painted everything with a whimsical air! She brought that whimsy into the gallery! I loved her for being so free with what and how she painted. Her spirit is all over the gallery.

I miss her.

Diane so wanted Grand Isle Art Works to succeed. She was a one-woman rooting section for us, full of heart and soul. She made me feel like I could be a painter, too. And, I was taking courage from her. She was the impetus behind our Thursday evening plein air painting group.

I think she would like us to consider keeping this tradition going.  Folks outdoors, painting, chatting and laughing together as they create art that makes them happy!  So, let’s plan on a weekly:

Landgirl Forever Paint Out on Thursdays 5:00ish!

Hope to see you there!