People who create are inspiring. When someone gives me something they created with their own hands, it humbles me. Be it a handcrafted basket, a stone thrown coffee mug, or an etching of my beloved pet, I appreciate the hours, talent, and thought put into such a creation.
My sister is a remarkable artist. Whatever the project, she can do it with expertise. Renee is my older sister, my only sibling. Growing up in her shadow was not easy. She was good at everything - music, art, school, sports, crafts, gardening, cooking, you name it. I, on the other hand, struggled with everything.
Renee was never arrogant about her talents. Quite the opposite. She learned early on that her skills were gifts from God for her to cultivate. She worked hard. She became a generous, compassionate, adult and an exceptional artist. Renee owns Geare Designs. It is her baby and provides a window into the depths of her personality. Geare Designs projects only a snippet of the amazing person she has always been.
Renee Geare
Renee and I were out of touch from each other’s lives for about five years. Those were tough years for me. I missed my best friend. I missed her wisdom and comfort. When we finally reconnected. I commented on one of her oil paintings that I saw online. I liked the way the train looked like a skunk with its fire-blown, white top.
Shortly after, a package arrived. It was her oil painting of the Skunk Train with a note that read, “Enjoy!” I cried. I loved it. It was even more magnificent in person than online. How could she give up something that must have taken so much time and effort? It was a generous gift. It was a perfect example of Renee’s attention to detail, originality and skillfulness.
The gift reassured me that I was loved by the person I wanted most in my life. Why did the painting mean so much to me? First off, I simply liked it. A lot. The colors, the creativity, the cleverness, and the simple nostalgia of an innocent time. Most of all, I loved that it was something beautiful that Renee created and found me special enough to share it with.
Later, I learned that the Skunk Train actually exists and Renee had painted it from a photo she had taken. So, what is the Skunk Train? Where is it?
The Skunk Train transports passengers to and from the California towns of Willits and Fort Bragg. It runs year-round through the redwoods with special themed trips over the holidays. Historically, the train was used to transport redwood logs. It was built in 1885. Such a treasure needs to be experienced. It is on the agenda for my next visit to California.
If you live in California, consider riding the Skunk Train's Pumpkin Express this autumn. You can enjoy the beautiful redwood scenery, choose a pumpkin and enjoy some fall treats! Purchase a spot for your canine companion as well.
That’s the thing with original art. It moves people. Art is personal. To give away or sell something that held your focus and maybe even consumed you is a contribution to our world. Creating beauty is not something just anyone is able to do. If you possess the gift of creating beautiful art, don’t underestimate the impact it can have on others.
The Skunk Train hangs on my living room wall. Every day I see it and feel special all over again.
For all things art and design, visit Geare Designs.
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