Summer in New England
Oil on Canvas 36 x 48
Private Collection
How to capture a quintessential New England beach on a summer afternoon, the tableau of familial love and the atmosphere of seaside air? “Summer in New England” became much more than my effort to capture my love for my children as the three stand at the water's edge, each embodying a unique facet of childhood wonder, it became my symbolic war paint, a moment I held onto over and over again when enduring chemotherapy shortly after the paint was applied to the canvas.
The oldest stands proudly, a specimen from the sea captured in a plastic bucket. With eager anticipation, he shares his find, inviting his younger siblings. His gesture symbolizes not just the joy of exploration, but also the bond of kinship that unites them in their shared adventures along the shoreline.
Beside him stands his fearless brother, ready to embrace whatever sea creature is hidden with open arms. With an unwavering gesture, he reaches out to examine the specimen with a sense of fearlessness, that unyielding spirit of exploration that defines his personality.
And then there is the youngest, the sister. With the sea breeze gently tousling her hair, blowing against her dress, she stands at the threshold of discovery, trusting in her brothers, always observing, always learning.
I didn’t know that “I could do this” and spurred my application to Rhode Island School of Design. Within weeks, I was confronted with a stage three breast cancer diagnosis at the age of 35, which consumed the next three years with surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation.
While this painting could be enriched or touched up, it became my beacon during those years, a source of solace and strength. Hung in my bedroom where I could see it from my bed, the painting served as a warm beautiful reminder of what I was fighting for.
Although I did attend as many evening R.I.S.D courses I could muster the energy to attend during that time.
The Process
Inspired by the timeless elegance of John Singer Sargent's "The Daughters of Edward Darley Boit,” and perhaps a bit of Normal Rockwell narrative, I wanted to capture timelessness. I opted to prioritize capturing the essence of the moment over exacting portraiture. I embraced the challenges inherent in the scene: from the impressions in the sand to the nuances of deeply familiar faces and the ephemeral qualities of the summer air.
What To Do in Maine
While this painting isn’t for sale, I do take the role of exploring beaches seriously and I am happy to share my recommendations! Maine beaches have incredible individual personalities, just like each quaint town. If you have the beach-ability to enjoy a visit with a sweatshirt, can find a spot on a large rock to sit in the sun, and understand these are cool (okay, cold) waters, then you will love coastal Maine beaches. I highly recommend basing your visit out of Freeport and doing day trips to:
York Beaches - two beaches wrapped around a family-friendly beach town
Old Orchard Beach - while I would much rather base out of Freeport, Old Orchard Beach is fun, nostalgic, and boardwalk.
Popham Beach - sand, sea, air…beautiful coastal, Maine! Simple and away from the big towns.
