My Father's Influence

On a recent trip to Vancouver Island, I took the time to visit what we call the “special beach.” It’s where both my grandfather’s and father’s ashes are spread. Because of the expensive ferry ride over, and just how busy life gets, I don’t get to visit as often as I would like. But this visit seemed to be a bit of a revelation for me.

My dad died when I was 17 years old from esophageal cancer. He postponed going to the doctor for far too long and once his cancer was discovered, it was too late. A short 9 months later and he was gone. Losing my dad was a huge blow that I did not see coming. I felt like I still hardly knew him.

Despite this, we still had so much fun together. We went camping every year without fail and spent so much time outdoors together. It was his absolute favorite place to be. Outside, in the fresh air, surrounded by nature.

I think I’m only now realizing how much of my dad’s love of nature has influenced me. When I first started painting with watercolors, I painted anything and everything until I started to hone in on my own artistic style. I am so drawn to everything that he was. The ocean. The trees. The mountains. Maybe that’s why! Do I associate that familiar feeling of nature with the security and love of my father? The strongest elements in creation have always reminded me of permanence, stability and structure, Since he is longer with me, I crave those qualities even more so. I feel like I’m starting to understand myself more as an artist even as I write this.

Well this is me. The daughter of a man who loved me to a fault. I fully believe that my artistic journey is helping me to continue to discover who I am, even at 33. And I’m so thankful that you are all on this journey with me. Every painting that emerges from my hands has a part of me in it. A part of my journey. And hopefully, a part of yours too.

Yours truly,

Kristina