Monday, 13 August 2012

Evie by Gerard Hendriks.

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.


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. 

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25 comments:

  1. Judy13 August 2012 at 10:14

    Wow Peter, what kind and generous gesture! The portrait is really amazing! You and Evie must be delighted!

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  2. Peter Ward13 August 2012 at 10:40

    Yes Judy we are.

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  3. artist13 August 2012 at 14:01

    What an amazing portrait and a wonderful gift for you and your grand daughter.

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  4. Sharon Whitley13 August 2012 at 14:22

    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!

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  5. Peter Ward13 August 2012 at 14:39

    What can I say Delilah and Sharon you've both said it for me.

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  6. Ray Maclachlan Art13 August 2012 at 14:42

    You must have been blown away Peter. The likeness is perfect and the colours go so well. The mouth ties it all together.

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  7. Unknown13 August 2012 at 15:40

    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.

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  8. Carmen 13 August 2012 at 15:46

    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 :)

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  9. Oscar Solis13 August 2012 at 19:51

    A true gentleman.

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  10. Peter Ward13 August 2012 at 23:37

    Quite right ray. I was blown away by it. I'm still staggered by Gerards generosity.

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  11. Peter Ward13 August 2012 at 23:39

    I wouldn't dream of comparing my effort with that of Gerards Mick. I only wish I could.

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  12. Peter Ward13 August 2012 at 23:40

    It is amazing isn't it Carmen. I think this is a one in a thousand happening.

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  13. Peter Ward13 August 2012 at 23:41

    A charming man and a true gentleman indeed Oscar.

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  14. Irena14 August 2012 at 00:50

    What a heartwarming story. Such a generous and lovely man.

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  15. John Softly14 August 2012 at 00:58

    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

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  16. Peter Ward14 August 2012 at 01:14

    Nice of you to say so John. It isn't exactly the same though as I'm not Gerard Hendricks.

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  17. Peter Ward14 August 2012 at 01:16

    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.

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  18. Laura14 August 2012 at 04:14

    Wow lucky you Peter. :-)

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  19. Peter Ward14 August 2012 at 05:16

    True Laura!

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  20. Trevor Lingard15 August 2012 at 02:17

    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

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  21. Peter Ward15 August 2012 at 12:05

    Thanks for commenting Trevor. I think you sum it up very well.

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  22. HELENA TROVAJ (fd Öhman)19 August 2012 at 00:33

    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

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  23. Peter Ward19 August 2012 at 01:59

    Welcome Helena and thank you for commenting. I've looked at your blog and bookmarked it. Always nice to meet fellow fanatics.

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  24. Unknown20 August 2012 at 04:25

    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

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  25. Peter Ward20 August 2012 at 04:58

    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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