HAND OF GOD
30" x 40"
Mixed Media

I noticed him as I was driving towards Broad St. one sunny morning after leaving my loft. Seeing a homeless person on the corner of this street is not uncommon, but today, this man caught my eye.

I stopped at the red light, grabbed all the toll money I had in my vehicle, rolled my window down and motioned for him. As I handed him the money I said “Good morning sir, may I take your picture with my phone? I’m an artist and I would love to do a painting of you someday.” He smiled and said “You want to take a picture of me? For a painting?” I said “Yes sir.” “Only if that’s ok with you that is.” He laughed and said “Well sure then!” He went on to say what a beautiful day it was and then blessed me. I don’t mean the “God Bless You” type of blessing, but a real blessing of peace and love. The sun was behind him and I had to squint to make eye contact as he was speaking, but I swear at that moment he looked like an angel.

The old silk flag I found in an antique shop many years ago. I bought it because it was so worn and fragile, but I’ve held on to it because I can still see it’s beauty, it’s strength and the glory of it’s past. It literally fell apart on me as I was attaching it to the canvas and I quickly had to google silk/fabric preservation so I could stabilize it. I felt the flag in it’s condition and this amazing homeless man were the perfect combination, because if you can’t see that this piece represents freedom and saving both, you are missing the whole point of the project.

We are all the same, no matter our economic status, race, gender, sexual orientation, or religion. We are all worthy of love, compassion and respect, and we all deserve to feel a sense of pride. This man showed me a great deal of love and respect that day and didn’t even know who I was. I hope I have done the same by capturing his amazing spirit in return.

I have looked for him many times but haven’t seen him since. I will be donating a percentage of the sale of this piece to a homeless organization here in Richmond.

HAND OF GOD  is comprised of a vintage silk flag mounted on canvas, leather and metal.