ARTIST
When my mom would see something in a store that she really wanted but had some hesitation about buying it, and would go back to it later only to see that it had sold, she would say “How Presbyterian.” Now she was Presbyterian so I’ll just say that first. But I think it was her funny way of saying “It wasn’t meant to be.” Now, you could also use that term when things are meant to be too.
There are occasions not only in life but also with my art when this witty phrase of my mom’s fits perfectly. I’ll share two of them with you here.
Take for example, the first time I had painted a 5 foot tall magnolia blossom. I just knew in my heart it was meant for someone special. Later, at an art show, a very intimidating woman was looking at this large magnolia painting. (I would describe her as having a hard exterior. Perhaps carrying a heartache and protecting herself is what I was perceiving that to be.) I asked her, “Would you like to know the story behind this piece?” And she said “Not really. But you’re going to tell me anyway so go ahead.” So I quickly mustered up my courage and trusted that my sincerity would help alleviate the tension.
She came back around later and and when she said she wanted to buy it, I was completely shocked! Then I looked her straight in the eye and said “I knew in my heart this was meant for someone special. You must be very special.” And you know what? I don’t know the last time someone reminded her she was special. It may not have meant anything to her, but it could’ve also been something she needed to hear. She softened a good bit in the end.
So what does this have to do with the honey? Well, I decided one day to paint my brother-in-law’s honey jar. He is a bee farmer and has shared these jars with us for years. And this painting hadn’t sold. So it was starting to feel very Presbyterian to me that he should have it! Yesterday, he happened to be in town and had dropped by to give us two fresh jars of honey, and I was able to give him one in return! I felt a little relief knowing it had found it’s perfect home. So very Presbyterian.
And, in case you haven’t been told in a while, please know that YOU too are very special!
Prints are now available of the honey painting referenced in this story. They are available in my online shop here.
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"It is sooooooo real. It appeals to my southern side. Details, depth, subject matter colors"
"Every piece shows your awe and respect for creation."
"A deep gaze into the wonder of simple moments. An attention to detail that says - every petal on a flower and every speckle on an egg - it all matters."
"Amy Crews paints the way the South feels."
"One of our favorite artists in all of Alabama is Amy. We love her realistic representations and dramatic use of shadowing. But more than that we just love Amy. She's always so warm and welcoming when we see her at local shows. Come out to her next show and purchase an original Amy Crews. You will not regret."
"In Amy's work, I see a sense of wonder that has been gifted to her. She paints in a way that helps and enables me to see intricate details of creation as I've never seen them before. I honestly think that her paintings have caused me to take more time to stop and look deeply into bits of nature that surround me daily. Her art has enriched my own sense of wonder."
"Being a nature lover and gardener, I was immediately drawn to Amy's paintings. The first painting I purchased was a nest containing four eggs with a butterfly perched on the side of the next. I have since purchased several more, but that one is my favorite. To me, her paintings evoke a sense of serenity—something we could all use more of in our busy lives."
"People seek peace - you produce it."
"While the Governor's Mansion serves as the People's House, it also becomes home to Alabama's first families. The 'Alabama Nest' features various state symbols, together symbolizing home in the private dining room. Thank you Amy for your generosity, creativity and service to Alabama!"
amy@amycrewsgallery.com
©2022 Amy Crews Artist
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