A Painting for Mother’s Day

Every year around this time, I find myself returning to a quiet tradition: painting flowers for my mother.

I can’t say exactly when it began. It likely grew out of those early handmade gifts we all remember, macaroni necklaces, construction paper cards, and small tokens of affection made with more sincerity than skill. Over time, those simple gestures evolved into something more lasting. A painting, it seemed, was the least I could do for the person who first encouraged my creativity and who bought me my first “grown-up” set of art supplies.

I still remember putting those supplies to work, carefully copying the Virginia bird of the month from a wildlife magazine. At first, it was just practice, learning to see, to mix color, and to be patient. But somewhere along the way, something shifted. After a year or so, I realized I had become quite good at it. More importantly, I understood how meaningful it felt to make something by hand and give it to someone I loved.

With Mother’s Day a few weeks away, I’ve been thinking about that again.

There is still time to give a gift that feels personal, something that lasts. Commissioning a painting, whether for your own mother or for the mother of your children, offers something truly one of a kind. Spring, with its softer light and sense of renewal, is an especially fitting time for portraits of children. These can be large, formal pieces or smaller, more relaxed studies that focus on expression and gesture. Either way, they become part of the family story and a family heirloom that will be cherished for generations to come.

When I mention sketches, I am referring to smaller works in charcoal or paint. While more modest in scale, they are approached with the same care as larger commissions. The process begins with a short photoshoot in my studio, where I look for natural expressions and a sense of personality that carries through to the final piece.

And if a portrait is not quite right, I do have a couple of floral paintings still available. Timeless subjects that bring light into a room and serve as a daily reminder of appreciation.

If this resonates, I would be happy to talk through ideas. 

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