Babies—First Year
Artist Statement

Years ago, I heard the well known artist, Wayne Thiebaud, speak about the need to take risks in order to develop and progress as an artist.  He used the example of the first time an infant stands and how frightening it would be for him  to fall ; and yet he does stand, and fall, and keeps trying until the skill is mastered and he moves on to life’s next challenge.  I have often thought about this statement that ‘one of life’s biggest risks that we take in life is learning to stand and walk.’  The other risks are secondary.

Over the past two years I have witnessed first hand the development of my new grandchildren from birth to walking and beyond.  There are photos galore of all of the cute things they have done and expressed.  There has been a lot of talk about what should happen, and when, in their development and how they compare to other little ones. There is the potential of where they will go in life and what they will be as human beings.  There is the naive, gentle wonder of their greeting the world around them, and there is love. What a challenge to express all of this!

Although this series is about my grandchildrens’ first years, it also expresses my curiosity about their futures.  I hope they do see the mountains, love dogs, climb trees and are happy as they grow. In fact, may every your child have the experience of enjoying nature.  These pieces also portray what they’ve already experienced as they’ve progressed.  They’re about nurturing and love… and about marveling at the positive, good things in life.  They’re about growth and hope, which one sees so much of in that first year.