The Portrait Spark

It’s 1969, and Mom takes her 4-year-old daughter to sit for a portrait. I remember Charles Tucker and his wife, Virginia, as being very kind and offering me ‘Nila Wafers and Lemonade. We visited their Charlotte, NC home and Charles’ studio 4-5 times. He was a famous portrait artist that studied in New York as part of the ASL. They were also great friends with my grandparents, Gustaf and Beulah Lundin. I remember the teddy bear Mr. Tucker had me hold for the portrait (that wasn’t mine, but I was hoping would be mine).

It was very tiring for a 4-year-old to sit for hours, but I am so thankful for this priceless keepsake I still have and see everyday. I have studied it thoroughly, and now appreciate every detail. My parents, grandparents, a aunt and uncle all have portraits. I plan on painting full sized portraits of my daughters and husband also. I will find a place to put them, even though many consider them old-fashioned. My portrait is my only irreplaceable possession.