Remembering a Special Young Man

Testimonial from David Anderson for "Remembering a Special Young Man": Judy Swerlick is an amazing and wonderful person who expresses herself beautifully through her art. I have admired her work for many years and am proud to say that I now own three of her works. Each one is displayed in a place of honor in my home. The one that is the most treasured is the portrait of my son, Michael; it is so good that I had copies made of it so that his sister and brother could also enjoy it. Portraits have to be hard to paint; there is a huge amount of emotion that can be attached to a likeness of a loved one. I was worried when I asked Judy to paint it because I really did not know what to expect. I had seen another portrait that she had done; it was of a friend that we had known for years. Judy not only captured the likeness of our friend, but her spirit was also obvious in the painting. When I finally saw what Judy had painted of my son, I was so happy that I had tears in my eyes. I took the portrait all over the campus where we worked and showed everyone. I was not only proud to show off my son, but also proud to show what Judy Swerlick had painted for me! My son was a student of hers; Judy knew him and captured his personality. The portrait is more than a likeness; it is my son. My son died of cancer before the portrait was painted. Judy was able to do so much more than recreate a photograph -- she gave it life. I am most grateful for Judy Swerlick's skill and even more grateful for her thoughtfulness and kindness.

very nice work, love this one Juana