Oil on canvas

50 x 70 cm

2022

A portrait celebrating a life.  A portrait celebrating the story of this man, the story of his long lost love.  He became a widower in his late 50s, he is the father to 10 children, he is the father of my mother. 

He has been a central figure in my life, he has been the only grandparent I knew growing up, and who I was close to. He never missed a special celebration, he always brought the same gift on every visit, it was a wooden toy made by homeless children who had taken refuge in a shelter for youth, where they were taught a life skill so they can earn a living on their own.  He always found people he could support and help, he often went to visit people in jail who never got visitors, he took care of sick people, he is gentle and kind.  

He always came wearing a suit, regardless of the weather in tropical Ecuador.  He also brought with him his guitar, he would play the sweet boleros and pasillos that are a part of me.  I am grateful to have him in my life still, to be able to spend time with him when I visit Ecuador, he is 97 years young and counting.  His laughter is with me in my heart.