The "Big Bang" Theory

"The Davidson Four", 24x36 Acrylic on Canvas, by Natalie Hirshman. Copyright 2007.

So, to answer how this endeavor came into being....well, I would equate it to years and years of ideas and mental images stewing in the little pressure-cooker of my mind until it's inevitable explosion. Late January 2007, I found my dear friend Karri's birthday was quickly approaching and not yet a gift in hand. I got this bright idea to create a painting of her Exalted Pets as an homage to her undying love for them and for being an all-round great mom. Only problem....her birthday was 6 days away. Could I do this? Was this "Painting Impossible"? I've feigned from painting for years...but, I knew the countdown had already begun.

So, how to make this special. Well, our ex-foster, Bunny, was simple. Because of her time in our home (thanks to Greyhound Pets of America, OC/GLA, www.fastfriends.org. I will remind you every post), we knew what a sassy little vixen this hound was. Since her recent adoption, she was still getting to know her new family, our best friends. I'm sure the first thing they taught her was if she were to be a part of this family, she must adopt a sincere love of the San Francisco 49ers. Thus, Bunny is musing the principles of the sport here and wondering if helmets were the football equivalent to wearing muzzles while racing. She decides it must be to keep everyone from biting each other. Naturally.

Harley, their first grey, is a gentle giant. Amongst his favorite interests include, sleeping, laying around, sleeping, OH! and his beloved apples. This smart cookie understands the importance of fiber to his daily diet, gingerly savoring his little gems down to their core. Only fitting for Harley to float amidst a sea of his favorite fruit. Brilliant, two down, two to go.

Then there's Sammy, their proud lion. Sammy proudly prowls through his domain, commanding respect from all with his deep, melodic meows. His jeweled crown suits him best amidst his natural habitat; the proud plains of the Serengetti. That poor, unassuming zebra in the background, a pity what fate may befall him.

Georgie, last but certainly not least, is their little survivor. He was my biggest challenge, for he does enjoy his solitude and my Georgie sightings were limited. What to do? Well, despite his frail appearance, a result of several medical maladies, this is one sweet feline. I bet there's a constant little party happening in that little heart of his, so greatful that he has a family that loves him so. Fantastic!

But, how can we forget little Charlie, who met the rainbow bridge in an untimely fashion. He must not be forgotten, so he'll finish the piece by signing my name for me in yarn.

Now, only to reunite that brush to finertips....shudder.

This is Friday morning, the day of reveal. You'll notice it is light outside. You may assume from this fact that I've been parked there since the night before. You would be correct. 144 hours from point of inception, my work was complete. I felt accomplished, proud, and excited (and tired). Dare I say, confident! And tired. This could be a start of something BIG. The rusty cogs in my head began churning once more....

So, how did the big reveal go?

I'd say it was a success.

Karri likes to take credit for being the cause of jumpstarting my purpose and I would have to say she's right. Thanks, Karri, for kicking my butt and pushing me to follow my dreams.

Cheers!