I'm going to break with tradition, as does this painting, and speak in first person. 

As sand slips through the hourglass, I honor another part of my art, and the one I love most. My painting, entitled 'Valediction' is now complete. 

This piece, inspired by my Dupuytren’s disease diagnosis, captures the raw emotions and physical sensations I experience as my ability to play piano - my first and most cherished form of artistic expression - slowly fades.

In looking at the stone fingers and the sand moving through a treble clef-shaped hourglass, I hope it inspires you to embrace and cherish the passions that define you, celebrating them with gratitude for as long as you are fortunate enough to hold them close.

AWARDS

• Camelback Gallery: Best in Medium 2024 Art Awards: First Place

• Fame Frame Gallery: Merit Award Winner - Masterpieces in Portraiture Competition, 2026

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Original acrylic painting on 24x24-inch canvas.