“Why does anyone buy Naples Yellow when you can make it?”

I heard Wilber Blair complain about this nearly every painting class for years and I smile every time I mix “Naples Yellow” in my studio now…

Quiet in demeanor. Soft spoken. Deep voice. Thin, and wiry. The wheels were always turning. Will could jump into any classroom conversation with an intellect that gave you pause. Then suddenly he was off and at a student’s side since he was always aware of who was doing what…

Just a few days ago and in my recent blog post I mentioned Wilber Blair. Artist, teacher, mentor and friend. The last post I wrote included a thank you to Wilber since I owe so much artistically to him. Weighing on my mind apparently since we hadn’t been in touch since my two- artist show at Artistree Community Art Center. Time is a curious thing, and it passes quickly. Too quickly. He was very proud of what I had created for the exhibit. I rest with that knowledge…

Yes, he has been on my mind. Thoughts of contacting Will since the election had crossed my mind on several occasions since we often spoke in detail about politics. Painting in his class years ago often included a deep interest in sharing political perspectives. From politics to literature kindred, we were. I kept meaning to email Will but just hadn’t found my way to the keys.