About the Hero Fighting Cancer Painting
This past April, one of my collectors, Frosty Dillman, posted a touching photo of her husband, Steve Dillman. Steve is a retired firefighter, a true hero fighting returning cancer suspected from chemical exposure on the job. The photo included several of his fellow colleagues who met him this past March for his first treatment. She then asked if I would create this painting to give to him for his last treatment.
Accepting the Commissioned Painting
Initially, I hesitated to accept this work, because I’ve been working diligently on my book and postponed exhibition titled My Wild Life. However, after careful consideration, I decided to accept it because it is incredibly meaningful. Plus due to this crazy COVID-19 pandemic and quarantines, my book and exhibition are postponed anyway.
Upon accepting this commission, I thought there were 50 people in this photo, but as I was finishing the painting, I saw a few more faces that seemed to peek through. I believe there are 53 total. Keep in mind, I was working from a fuzzy 8.5 x 11 copy of a photo from the Facebook post.
Challenges I Faced
Frosty knew it would be a challenge for me and informed me I could make Steve stand out and the others ghostly, but as I began to work on this painting, I felt such compassionate good energy that I felt each person deserved the same attention. It took me an entire month.
Normally, I hand sketch everything, but due to being pressed for time and lack of detail in the photo, this is one that I did have to project and trace onto the canvas. It still took several weeks after that to complete. Here is the process.
Travel to Present the Painting
As I neared finishing this painting, Frosty and I were communicating when she mentioned how nice it would be if I could be there in person to present it. They live in my original birthplace, Indiana, and I’m all the way south in Georgia. However, I decided it is so special that I should accept, so I did. Although I did not get the privilege of meeting the fellow first responders, I was thankful that I said yes.
Upon arriving, I picked up my rental car and headed straight for their house.
Presenting the Painting
Next, I headed to their beautiful home for a wonderful patio dinner Frosty made us. We were joined by a long time family friend, Sue, and her husband Gary, who initially connected us. Upon presenting the surprise painting, I told Steve I needed help naming it. I could tell Steve was thoroughly touched. After careful consideration, he said he would like the name Brotherhood in the title. I simply chose to name it Brotherhood. Sue took many if not all of these wonderful photos.
A Special Tour
Steve showed me his special room with his career memorabilia. I learned a lot about firefighters by visiting his room. I must say, creating this piece which measures 12 inches by 24 inches, is my highest honor to date. I’m thankful Frosty put her faith in me to create this special piece.
Supporting First Responders
I hope you enjoyed this post. If so, please share it. If you would also like to help with the firefighters with cancer, you may donate to the Firefighter Cancer Support Network where Steve Dillman is a mentor.
Meanwhile, I’m down to only three and one-half paintings out of 15 for my exhibition. Subscribe to my newsletter for updates here: https://tinasfinearts.com/news/subscribe-now/. I don’t spam or sell info. Newsletters come out monthly with an occasional extra around special events or holidays. Plus you get an exclusive 10% discount on original art.
Thank you for your support,
Tina Stoffel
