This triple tribute was initiated while listening to Ronald Reagan's initial State of the Union address. I was at my easel painting as usual while listening to his statesmanly presentation of his hopes for our country. When he concluded, I declared out loud, “I have to paint the man!” For the next three years, I gathered and purchased photographs that I felt reflected upon several aspects of Reagan’s tenure as our leader.
Finally, a time slot opened up between commissioned portraits, and I made the final selection of the three images I would use. I was scheduled for a five-day public exhibit at a local mall. In full view of all the shoppers, I proceeded with the drawing on canvas. I felt in the depths of my heart that this was a great honor and a historic moment, but the shoppers, with only one exception, showered me with vitriol for twelve hours a day for five consecutive days. They were very vocal, with one even grabbing my neck from behind. I was defenseless, holding a palette in one hand and a brush in the other. Fortunately, her husband dragged her away, even as she continued blaming President Reagan for her many woes. Another shopper said gruffly, “I know who the guy in the middle is, but who are the other two?” This comment left me speechless. The only person who refreshed me was the head of the local La Leche League, who whispered in my ear, “I think he’s doing a good job.”
At subsequent shows, I was featured in full color with this painting on the cover of the local newspaper. Many people came to watch me work as the painting developed. At another exhibit a dear woman stood behind me and wept. Three different men offered to purchase the painting even before it was completed. I retained it, and this piece brought in twenty-five years of consistent commissions.
During the Reagan years and with the help of a beloved couple from church, we were finally able to purchase a home that included a large studio/classroom. I signed the painting with Romans 13, which includes the exhortation to “Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.” This was my reaction to the disrespect I had heard expressed. A painting can bring out the best or worst in a person. People stand in front of a portrait and tell me all about themselves!
