My last post but one was a feature on Gerard Hendriks the Dutch master watercolourist. In the course of preparing it I contacted Gerard, who was most helpful in answering requests for information. A few days after publishing the feature I received an e-mail with attached image from Gerard. To my amazement it read " I also tried to paint Evie. I do not know Evie. It is more difficult painting from a photo if I do not know the girl". The photograph used was the recent one on which I based my own poor effort. I immediately replied saying how delighted and astonished - indeed honoured - he had taken the trouble to do this. Gerard replied that as I liked it he would send it to me but would do some further work first. Another e-mail arrived with the definitive image.
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Evie - 57cm x 38cm Hannemuhle Leonardo 300lb (600gsm)
Arriving home this afternoon, after a trip out with Evie, who is with us today and tomorrow, what should have arrived but the parcel, left by the delivery van in the care of a neighbour.
I still find myself somewhat bemused by what has happened and I can't imagine many other artists doing something similar. He has refused any recompense, even for the carriage costs, saying he "likes to make people happy". I was a fan before, an even bigger one now and can only repeat my thanks. What a generous man! The painting will go to a quality framer in Bath and remain a treasured family possession. Thank you once again Gerard.
25 comments:
Wow Peter, what kind and generous gesture! The portrait is really amazing! You and Evie must be delighted!
Yes Judy we are.
What an amazing portrait and a wonderful gift for you and your grand daughter.
I LOVE stories like this - how wonderful - it really puts your faith back in human nature when sometimes all we here is bad things, you and Evie must be thrilled - it's a big piece too, what a lovely guy!
What can I say Delilah and Sharon you've both said it for me.
You must have been blown away Peter. The likeness is perfect and the colours go so well. The mouth ties it all together.
That's one of the loveliest stories I've heard in a long time and if I dare say it he's done a better job than we saw from yourself. Marvellous.
I am constantly amazed by stories like this but also love reading them so much. What a fabulous thing to do and a gorgeous (and HUGE) portrait at that. Lovely to read this :)
A true gentleman.
Quite right ray. I was blown away by it. I'm still staggered by Gerards generosity.
I wouldn't dream of comparing my effort with that of Gerards Mick. I only wish I could.
It is amazing isn't it Carmen. I think this is a one in a thousand happening.
A charming man and a true gentleman indeed Oscar.
What a heartwarming story. Such a generous and lovely man.
Peter,
Now you know what it feels like. You did exactly the same for me with your painting of my Great Grandfather.
There are many generous gentlemen within our chosen pastime / profession and you are one - what goes around comes around.
Beautiful painting!
Cheers
John
Nice of you to say so John. It isn't exactly the same though as I'm not Gerard Hendricks.
Thanks Irena. It is a great heartwarming story isn't it. He is a super man. I've only communicated with Gerard by e-mail but he comes across as so modest and nice.
Wow lucky you Peter. :-)
True Laura!
A stunning portrait by Gerard.
A lovely story.
A lovely gesture which I am sure will stay with you for ever.
There are indeed some nice people in this world.
Regards
Trevor
Thanks for commenting Trevor. I think you sum it up very well.
Hi Peter
I found your blog by just googling around and im glad I did:) Its always funny to find others who have à big and genuine interest in Watercolor!
Im à big fanatic painter myself and if you got the time you are welcome to visit My blog:)
Kind regards Helena Öhman
Welcome Helena and thank you for commenting. I've looked at your blog and bookmarked it. Always nice to meet fellow fanatics.
Wow Peter, what a response to Evie's portrait and it is indeed a heartwarming story. It has also inspired me to have another go at painting my granddaughter Evie
You finally made it Jan! It is inspiring isn't it. I have another portrait finished of Evie which I think is much better than my previous effort and it will be posted soon. However I now turn to trying to produce something worthwhile for Harvey and Mackenzie.
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