RIP Ahma

Early this week my Grandmom passed away. She was 90 years old. Like anyone that's 90, she's seen a lot. From living in poverty, to living through war, to immigrating to the US. From no TV to video chatting on Skype. She's lived a lot. But, most important for her generation, she's raised and watched many kids, grandkids, and great grandkids grow up happy and healthy. Not bad for someone that couldn't read, write, or drive. It's really quite amazing. So, as the week went on and preparations for our Grandmom's funeral took place, I found myself searching for some release. It took me a minute, but I came to rest on what has given me comfort my whole life. My pencil. It was wonderful to have my wife June with me, but there's just something about pencil to paper that helps me process. Likeness was never my strength when it came to straight on portraits. But, I had to try. Here is my attempt.


My first attempt was a little off. The sketch you see here is after some adjustments were made. It came out better than I expected.


After really struggling with the straight on view, I had to make sure that I wasn't losing it. So, I sketched my Grandmom at three quarter view. Much more accurate and it took less than half the time. I really have to practice my front views.


I wanted to share this picture of my Grandmom. Some may think that its in bad taste to take a picture of her at the hospital. But, this is one of my favorite pictures of her. To me, it really shows how far she's come in her life. Grandmom was video chatting on a laptop! How cool is that? Our Grandmom accomplished a lot in her life. Maybe, not to some people's definition of accomplishments. But, she accomplished what was most important to her generation. A large happy healthy family. We'll miss you Grandmom. Rest in peace.

3 comments:

kaNO! said...

I dont think the pic is in bad taste at all, she had a full life filled with loved ones, what more can anyone ask in any generation.

Janelle Lannan said...

I agree with kaNO! The pick shows how focused she was on communicating with her family... and it's aDORable: she's so TINY!
I bet she was a lovely human to talk to. I would have loved for Luis to have met my grampa, but am so glad you and your wife both got to spend time with your Grandmom.
Miss and love you much, e.

evan said...

Thanks guys. Yeah, my Grandma was loved by many. A lot of people came out for her funeral. She was one of the oldest that made it out of the little village our family is from. Her life touched many.

J: Hope all is well. Congrats on the marriage!