I’ve mentioned before that I really enjoy working to commission, as you learn a little bit about the people involved.  In this case, a lady asked me to make a large framed piece featuring Hook Head Lighthouse.  This was planned as a special birthday gift for her brother, who had a love of lighthouses, and this Co Wexford landmark in particular.

Working on a commission is a very personal activity. The stakes are high. I put a lot of myself into it, and I’m very focused on the recipient throughout the process.  It’s very satisfying, and a little nerve-wracking too.

Anyway, I got the piece to the lady just in time, and I was delighted to receive a lovely note from her brother.  I won’t divulge it all, to preserve the identity of all involved, but here’s an excerpt:

‘My sister recently commissioned a piece from you as a birthday gift for me, a piece of nostalgia for me. Having gone to sea as a cadet at the age of 16, my last sight of landfall was Hook Head Lighthouse on my first voyage and the first sight again on my return trip some weeks later, I have retained a special love of the place since. May I complement you on the creativity and quality of your work.  I will forever appreciate your beautiful lighthouse.’

Receiving this lovely message made my day. It’s an honour to be trusted to work on these special treasures.