James and I shared a studio. He was a sweet, sensitive man. James was gifted at faux finishes. He, like so many of my friends of the time, was struck down by AIDS. In the course of one afternoon I learned that three of my closest friends were HIV+. It was a devastating era to contract the disease.
Working near the entrance of the Austin Children's Museum was a thing of pure joy. The kids wonder and excitement made me think of my own formative art experiences. Childhood is a time of realizing the power and magic of art. I was blessed by parents that encouraged my talents. How they found the time to recognize and support me, with seven other kids, has always left me grateful. This encouragement was reenforced by educators in elementary, jr. high, and high school. To this day I cannot type because Ms. Gerund (god bless her), at Johnston Junior High petitioned to allow me two semesters of freshman art. My birthdays were always filled with art supplies and books. I wanted to be an artist at an easel. That is what I saw in those kids eyes....mini me.
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