After the tragedy here in Charleston at the Emanuel Church, there was an overwhelming response to the event from Charleston artists. The Artists for Emanuel was formed and now has over 90 artists donating a piece of work to the November 11 event. The Gibbes Museum is doing an Art for Healing Symposium, and the Colours of Music, Black Musicians Festival Artists are performing. You can go to www.artistsforemanuel.com for more information and updates.

The Colour of Music performed a benefit a month back, and was truly one of the most moving and impressive concerts I have gone to. It was like angels from heaven that night and I was so inspired by the singers. Especially Dr. Lori Hicks, who came to the studio and modeled for me. Not only modeled - but sang also. She is a truly beautiful woman and hope that I have done justice to her in two portraits I have done. The first one (below) is going off to the City Art Gallery Figurative Show, September 11. The second is donated to the benefit in November. I will post that when finished.

"Carmen" 36x24 oil on board (named because I listened to opera and Carmen while I painted)