My Mum and I have a rocky relationship and at the moment we are quite distant. My Dad moved away to Melbourne when I was 8. I get along really well with my Dad but the physical distance restricts us from having a more fulfilling relationship. Having always felt a distance with my parents, whether it be emotional or physical, I find myself longing for that connection with an elder.
I have known Mikey for a year now and the kindness and care he has shown me has filled my cup immensely. He has an adoration of me that one has for a daughter and it makes me feel safe and happy. The love he shares is unconditional. He's always so excited to see me and always talks about his pride for the relationship his son and I share.
In my painting you can see Mikey with a look of absolute content. It was at Christmas, there was laughter and chatter at the dinner table. He had this look of deep happiness and it captured his pride so fully that I wanted to encapsulate that memory forever.