My father, George Wieringa, was born 92 years ago today. He died three and a half years ago after years of living with Parkinson's. In his 50's he had a stroke which affected one side of his body. His struggle back from that was heroic. He was able to do things with his one good arm that lots of people can't do with two. Someone suggested he take up painting as part of his therapy. He did two paint by number pictures that didn't satisfy him. He then started messing around with the leftover paint on shoebox lids and taught himself what he needed to know to paint what he wanted to paint. I think he did some beautiful work and I enjoy the pieces that I have of his. He was a remarkable man who loved God and his family. He was funny and wise and generous. We were blessed to have him with us for 88 1/2 years.
3 comments:
This is such a beautiful idea; to honor your father with a portion of your website. The paintings are as honest as they could be, and how very admirable that someone can pick up and start painting with such detail and no experience, and after a stroke and with Parkinson's no less..simply amazing. How very touching and special that you have done this...it opens my heart on a day that I wanted to keep it closed! Thank you..you probably thought you were only doing it for yourself or for him or the family, but no!
Thanks, Nikki.I appreciate your thoughtful reflections on this!
I never knew that he started out, after the paint-by-number to paint on shoe box lids. I find that so endearing. You have provided a wonderful tribute of your dad. Thank you for sharing it.
--Michelle
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