Inspiration for Here Comes the Bride

I completed Here Comes the Bride after being inspired by my Brother’s wedding. I’ve heard many times that we shouldn’t look at the Bride when she enters. Instead, we should look at the Groom! Although I’ve never actually made the attempt myself, enough photos have been taken to validate that bit of wisdom! An expressive acquaintance from college, who performed in many stage plays, posed as the groom, and my Father as the minister.

Delight and Anguish

It’s amazing how much joy and pain mingles throughout this life. This painting expresses happiness and fulness of being. Yet the families of both subjects in the painting have experienced intense sorry and pain. Because neither person is with us any longer. My Father lost his life in a bicycling accident. And after a short battle with cancer, my friend also passed away. My Wife and I displayed this piece at our reception; we thought it was extremely fitting. For better, for worse…in sickness and in health. Although my Father couldn’t be there in person, he very much attended in spirit.  And although we missed him, we know our loving Heavenly Father presided in his place. Life on this earth is dreadfully short, my friends. I implore you to be certain of what will happen to you after your physical body becomes still.