Three Brothers and Shady Dell

Seeking a place where his family could escape the city, and probably tired of the arduous task of camping, my Dad’s father purchased a small piece of land on the Molalla River in the 1940s.  With two kids grown-up, two teenagers (with friends) and his youngest kid in grade school, “Shady Dell” was the perfect idea for my grandparents’ ever changing family.  Of course there was no real structure on the property, but that was okay.  I really think Grandpa “awarded” himself a midlife project.  I’m sure being the warehouse manager for Sprouse Reitz had its rewards, aside from raising a family during the Depression.  I just don’t think building outdoor structures was one of them.  Shady Dell gave Grandpa an opportunity to satisfy his passion for carpentry and he took full advantage.

This painting is of a typical summer scene at Shady Dell in the late 1940s.  Inspired from a photo taken from the deck of Grandpa's cabin - it’s teenagers Russell and Rod (my dad), with their younger brother, Ken.  It’s a perfect summer day like so many before and after.  I painted this for my Uncle Russ.  He’s meant a lot to our family over the years.  And he lives on Maui – which is a strategic place for those who love to visit…..paradise.   It's 24" x 19" framed.