(Above: Husband II, Decision Portrait Series. Stitched words: I put my wife through law school. Unframed 25" x 19"; framed 31" x 25". Xylene photo transfer on tea-stained muslin. Hand embroidery. Click on image to enlarge.)
Patrick Parise is a wonderful artist, a master print-maker, and devoted to his family. His wife Sandi runs her own law firm and enjoys well-earned respect and admiration from her peers in the legal field. They met in college, got married, and were trying to support themselves working in food service positions. Of course, they were barely getting by. I relate to "those days". Steve and I tried it too; something had to give! Lots of young newlyweds work in low paying, under appreciated positions. Perhaps that's why so many marriages end in divorce; financial problems cause too much friction......but......now back to Patrick and Sandi.
(Above: Husband II, Decision Portrait Series. Detail. Click on image to enlarge.)
Sandi had an opportunity to work in the public defender's office....as a secretary, nothing particularly special...a little more money....but importantly, the opportunity to see what other, better jobs entailed. One day, she told Patrick that she thought she could do a lawyer's job; she wanted to go to law school. Patrick's reply, "Will it make you happy?" She said, "Yes!"
Without hesitation, Patrick found a way....taking more shifts, moonlighting, working several jobs to keep Sandi in school. He has supporter her every dream, including setting up her own practice. He maintains the house. He was a hands-on parent to their only child, a daughter....who he's now helping put through law school!
Patrick Parise is also a brilliant man, articulate, educated, and talented. He could have been anything he wanted to be....and he is exactly that....someone's soul mate....for over thirty years of marriage. Please visit Patrick's website. His artwork is as meticulous and beautiful as the man who created it!
By the way, this portrait is titled Husband II because, obviously, there's another one called Husband! The first piece has stitched words reading: I loved her for 45 years, the last 15 with MS. The background includes (repeated): In sickness and in health 'til death do us part. To see this portrait, click HERE.
1 comment:
These are beautifully done and such a tribute to the people they are about. Interesting to read. Love the long list of titles for other portraits as well. And yes, his art is awesome!
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