The Savo period of William Miller’s art was short, very short (1990-1991), but many enjoy this only oil painting signed SAVO (image in previous post). What’s not to like about expansive turquoise, palm trees and beach?
Paradise, anyone? At the very least: VACATION!
Although much appreciated, Dad’s painting felt devoid of emotion. For me, it was all about the signature. When I’ve expressed this viewpoint, others insist that it provides more than a sterile illustration. Happy, serene, peaceful, soothing, etc.; emotive words, no doubt. They may have a point. If you look carefully at the painting, a figure is shown manning the sail. Maybe there is much more; maybe this was his heaven. I don’t know. We didn’t discuss it; Dad slipped away in his sleep five months after I received the painting.
With that in mind, I share with you a painting we did discuss; one of my two most cherished paintings done by Dad. As a young 5-6 year-old, I was drawn to this painting even before I knew he was the artist. It hung in the living room of my great aunt Lempi, the sister of Dad’s mom.
William Miller was 15 years old when he produced his first oil painting ever. When I told him how much I loved the painting, he shook his head and said “back then I didn’t know what I was doing”. He was referring to the fact that it was the first time he had used oil paint and he applied it to paper, not canvas. In spite of that, it has endured; the painting is over eighty years old. Here it is.
For me, at six, this was deep.
I coveted the painting for years. It became mine on May 26,1971 when my great uncle handed it over to me.
Coming up: Here is the way it went down…
Coming soon: Savogallery.com
Wow, this is very interesting. I like it!
An outstanding painting by a 15 year old boy! Lucky to have a painting that has lasted so long & it still looks great! Bravo! 🙂
The painting is beautiful! There’s certain portions of it I lovelovelove for some reason. I think because of how I feel like I can see sunlight reflecting on certain things or creating shadows beneath other portions of terrain. Thanks for sharing!
Loved your blog about Van Gogh! Our new grandson’s name is Theo after Vincent’s brother! The painting by your father is gorgeous —–aren’t you lucky it’s in your possesion!