Cardboard Dreams

The subjects in this painting were two very soft hearted people I met months ago in NYC. Neil, on the left, agreed I could photograph them for money. Dolores, on the right, asked "each?"

Their only possessions appeared to be the plastic bags, contents and cardboard sheets used as beds on the cold hard sidewalks. We talked about how they ended up on the streets and what their hopes and dreams were.

Dolores asked what I would do with the photos. I explained that I was going to do a painting of them. "A real painting?" she asked, followed by another genuine question as to what I would do with the painting, as she would really like to see it. I told her I would be having a big show in the city and that they were welcome to come to the opening as my personal guests.

Dolores then turned toward Neil who was further away and said "Hey Neil, did you hear that? Denis says we're invited to the opening for his painting show. We can go get some new clothes and I'll wear a pretty dress."

"Yes, we'd love to come."

Acrylics on canvas
38"x56"