CMSA; Todays post inspired by one of the most inspirational families i have ever known and one of the best love stories i have ever had the pleasure of observing. They are Reggie senior and junior, Gervel and Amani Sampson. it breaks my heart i don't get to celebrate reggie in person, my heart aches for the pain the familiy is feeling as they process one of lifes most difficult transitions..
I would definitely want to share a few of my favorite reggie stories from back in the day! Like the one when he asked me to repaint your pregnant with amani face ( what's that been now, like 30 years???) because he always wanted to see you smile!!! I said at the time; "Reggie, why did you wait til the painting was done to tell me??!!" He just looked me straight in the eye and said calmly; "I didn't" ... And with those two words i learned a very important lesson (when it comes to commission painting ), that i remind myself of often...Do not get so carried away with your personal vision, that you fail to hear your client when he is trying to tell you of his... i"ve been trying to remember if i ever told him (and you) how moved and grateful i've been for that lesson as well as all your support through the years? Thank you. i love you both, and i'll never forget the pleasure of watching the love you had for each other hold steady all these years.
As for you , dear sister artist, i know you know that you will take the time to grieve as you must, but will also remember that artmaking will keep you in touch with your center. When your world rocks this will help you keep your psychic equilibrium. I think there's value in just showing up in your studio, even if you don't feel like it, and even if no art making actually takes place that day. After all, this is the place where artists go to process everything, from rage to bliss to tragedy....all my love, your sister Cynda Mary
