Blog

I painted a picture of Downtown Charlottesville this week. I've never painted a city scene or buildings--so this was a stretch for me.  I have to say I really enjoyed painting this!  It reminded me of working a jigsaw puzzle with each little addition revealing a final picture.  

I especially enjoyed the flurry of wonderful memories from my trips downtown over the years.  This summer has been difficult for Charlottesville and some of my favorite places in town have been tarnished with images of hate and ugliness. Painting this picture allowed me to reflect on happier times and memories of years past.  

When I was a little girl we rarely went into town, but downtown was pretty much the only place to shop.  Mom always took us to Woolsworth to shop and we always went into the diner portion to have lunch.  They had balloons hanging in a row over the counter.  After you finished your banana split--you picked a balloon to see how much it would cost.  Mom always enjoyed her cup of steamy hot coffee and all was well. Of course, any time with Mom was a wonderful, wonderful day.

Over the years that followed the mall changed a great deal.  It became a pedestrian mall and it evolved to a wonderful mix of eclectic shops, nice restaurants, and street vendors.  Walking down the mall in the summer and listening to a variety of music as people play for a few bucks--but really more for the joy of playing.  It is a care free place that forces relaxation.  I especially enjoy a nice dinner outside watching people of all varieties doing exactly the same thing I am doing...enjoying life.  

I realized an important lesson as a painted--in my mind the city hasn't changed a bit! It is imperative we hold on to our wonderful memories and make our city return to the place we love.

I'm now painting a picture of the UVA Chapel...another Charlottesville icon. It is truly a timeless beauty....I'm hopeful I can capture a portion of it's character. I may see if I can find a picture of the old Woolworth counter to paint one day.

My goal for this week is to reflect on goodness and special places.

Have a good week!

Beth