Ocean Sounds

Disclaimer: 

No stringed instruments were harmed in the production of this oil painting. I bought my first violin in 1977, inspired by Michael (Mik) Kaminski - who played with Electric Light Orchestra. I also became absolutely awestruck with the work of the late Isaac Stern, who in my opinion, was the greatest violinist to ever live.

About the painting:

For many years I have had the idea of this painting in the back of my head. The image, seemingly tragic, of a beautiful, but forgotten instrument being sorely mistreated, also holds a message of beauty remembered. That's the hope...

The violin, a creative extension of ourselves, gave us wings of love and passion - to convey our kinship with one another. When I gaze at this finished painting I hear Mick playing the intro to "Livin' Thing", Isaac playing Mendelssohn's concerto in E minor, Op. 64: 1, Allegro molto appassionato. I hear all the music behind Sarah Brightman and Andrea Bocelli's "Time to Say Goodbye." And I hear The Bravery singing, "The Ocean Rolls us Away."

Do you see it now? 

We are beautiful. 

That's the point.