Many times, family and friends are looking for ways to console those who have suffered a loss, when flowers don't say enough. Over the years, I have been commissioned to do portraits for families of children who have died - a portrait that will last a lifetime; something to imortalize their loved one.  It has been truly humbling to take part in creating a keepsake that will comfort these families. 

For families who have lost a baby through stillbirth or premature birth, an original drawing is a delicate alternative to sometimes graphic photographs.  A drawing can eliminate blemishes often associated with these births and will only add to the natural beauty of the child.

Portrait of Camille -- With frame to the right.

Portrait of Alice - stillborn little girl

------------------------- 

Aside from these commissioned portraits, I offer a print entitled "From my Hands to Yours", that was originally created to celebrate the birth of a child.  I was surprised to find that this print was more often sought out as a bereavement gift.  Once again, it was humbling to know that I had created a piece that had touched so many and given comfort in a very real time of need.

I must give credit to a dear friend, Georgia Jensen Blosil, a wonderful author and poet, with whom I've had the priviledge to work with on many projects.  Her thoughtful poem , "Little Hands", was written to accompany this print.  What an inspiration to complete my drawing. I have included the picture with the verse below:

From My Hands to Yours

Little Hands held in mine-

Sweet tender touch! So brief the time 

Thy gift of love was given me

Before those hands returned to Thee.

Dear Savior, hear my heartfelt prayer.

Keep them safe within Thy care,

Until the timeThy gift can be-

Those Little Hands restored to me. 

                       Georgia Jensen Blosil

You will find this item available in the gallery section ready to order!

To commission a portrait of a loved one,

please look at the Gallery page for the Sale item "Bereavement Portrait" for a pencil drawing

or "Bereavement Portrait Oils" for an oil painting.

Select the item that you would like and complete the order.  DarinAshbyArt.com will

contact you within one business day to discuss the portrait, options, and framing!