Braiding Before Practice

Another outstanding commission by

Toby:

 "Terry and I ride our bikes to school and back, and on Tuesdays we stop at her ballet studio for her hour long practice.  Sometimes she has her hair already braided to stay out of the way during dance class.  If not, I come out on the practice floor and braid it while she stretches before class starts.

 "Terry is a really sweet person and kinda shy at school.  But that changes when she's on the dance floor.  She *is* the best dancer her age in the class (and she knows it).  Once we're there, I hear all the best gossip about who is going to perform what and where and whether they are good enough for the part. A lot has to do with whether or not she wanted the part herself.

 "So . . .  I smile, nod my head and pay attention to everything she says.  Sometimes with a very big grain of salt.  Of course, I always agree and would never say anything to question her opinions.  It’s just that  sometimes I can't keep the amused suspicion off my face - when she can't see me."


The Author:

There were 4 years separating my original commission from this one.  I had known what I wanted expressed, and could visualize it in my imagination.  But I struggled with my ability to communicate that with the artist.  I wanted their facial expressions to tell a story about their relationship as best friends.  My worry turned out to be unnecessary.  WhiskyPaint, with my "maybe this, maybe that" explanation, achieved the effect wonderfully.  I continue to feel privileged in our working relationship.