I wanted to call this work WELCOME TO MY WORLD as the viewer is drawn into the painting by the model's pose and eyes.  I was impressed by the metal sculptures that Norm created out of metal. He always had a story or two to tell of his adventures.  Norm was a friend to the subject in WORKING MAN I, WM II, MOVIN' ON, ONE LIFE, and THE CARETAKER.  Authentic, skilled, intelligent, free, and humorous were words to describe "Norm".  My husband and I visited Norm in the VA hospital in Memphis for him to see this portrait I completed. He passed on January 29, 2011.  What a great spirit he had.  I was honored that our paths crossed.

(KWS Aqueous USA 2011, Juror- Eric Wiegardt; Best of Show GCVAA Spring National-juror John Salminen, Southern Watercolor Society Award by Fredrick Graff (United Community Bank of Hiawasee Cash Award) "This portrait is powerful, evocative, and emotional. Each viewer will create their own story of who this man was.  Should do well in competitions..."--John Salminen) - Jackson Art Association and Middleton Art League-Best of Show 2012 - Selected as Recognition of Excellence (Watercolor Society of Alabama's 2012 Online Show) that earned me Signature Membership.)  This painting now resides with Norm's children in Tennessee.