Where The Heart Is

Where The Heart Is

(commission)

20 x 24"

oil on cradled panel

© Nicki Ault, 2017

sold

I was contacted earlier this year by the family of a dear friend of mine. They asked if I would consider doing a painting for her 65th birthday, but they wanted her to be involved so the painting didn't actually have to be done for the big day (February). I was honoured to be asked and of course I said yes! I knew she would either choose a prairie scene or something to do with Waskesiu Lake, so I was confident I could tackle whatever she decided on. After much debating, a Waskesiu sunset was what she desired.

I have known this beautiful woman for twenty-five years. A lifetime ago in many ways. I knew her before I was married; she was my manager at a store where I worked, and with her support, that seasonal Christmas job actually evolved into a ten year career. We became fast friends and confidents, we traveled together to conferences across our beautiful country and we supported each other in our work, both the successes and struggles of our stores. We have seen each other through some really good times and, as life goes, some really hard times. And we have laughed! Boy, have we laughed!

Life has changed a lot for both of us since 1992 and we don't see each other as much as we used to, but our friendship is such that we always pick up where we left off and without missing a beat. She is passionate about her family; her beloved husband, her three children and her five grandchildren. She takes care of those around her with such a loving heart. I am proud to know her. I am honoured to have created this painting for her and I hope it gives her joy every single day for the rest of forever.

Happy birthday dear friend.