LYN WESTFALL
ARTIST
War Drawings
June 5, 2001 to August 27, 2002
Introduction:
Following my Mother’s death in 2000, I went into therapy. During this time, I gave myself permission to draw like a child. These drawing are the result.
1. In the first set of drawings, I am remembering being bedridden with rheumatic fever for 6 months. I was 4 years old and would have been hospitalized, only that my mother was able to care for me at home. I recall a nurse visiting and placing a pencil on top of my blankets and told ‘this pencil is not to move!’ (#1–5)
2. These drawings deal with my war research. I visited the Runnymede War Memorial England 4 times though out the years, often staying in the town of Windsor, where I frequently visited Windsor Castle and especially St. Georges’ Chapel. (#6–11)
3. Babar, from the well-loved book, Histoire de Babar by Jean de Brunhoff , is introduced. It was this book, that led to the intense research about my father’s war experience. (#14-20)
4. Gradually the drawings start to shift from father, to the awareness that I am my father’s daughter. (#22–23)
5. Here I am, “jive queen”, fully alive, dancing with billowing skirts. (#24-31)
6. The final set of drawings centre around the concept of honouring my father, but also, all soldiers, who gave their lives, in combat, for our freedom. (#43–49)
These drawing measure 14” x 16” – India Ink on acid free paper – unframed -$300.00 ea.
