Ever feel like you need to hit the “re-set” button for your life? Working in middle Tennessee last week was just that for me. A change of scenery and a change of pace, I painted in new places that felt as if I’d previously been there.
My elementary school had a yearly assembly with the owner of a summer church camp, Brother Henry Geiger. He had owned Cedar Lake Camp for almost 20 years and an orphanage 20 years before that. A high energy old man spouting Bible verses, he encouraged us to attend his summer camp.
“There will be canoeing, archery, campfires and a 6 a.m. polar bear plunge,” he said. “Brr,” I said. He held up flashcards and asked who could be first to tell a Bible story about it. Hands shot up eager to tout stories of Noah, Meshach and a salt pillar. I was out-versed for sure.
Several friends went and all had great memories to share. The cabins were basic, and the fun was outside. Those friends now send their children and grandchildren to Cedar Lake Camp, virtually unchanged except for the marketing plan. Having the place to myself, I painted there last week. Such a sweet sanctuary, feeling the presence of past campers and the devotion (both meanings) of the old man’s lakeside legacy.
Consider yourself re-set.
Photographer Chris and painter Robin Rohwer each week share a painting or photograph that captured their interest in hopes that it will also capture yours. They have a small studio and gallery in the Phoenix Building at 418 South Gay Street where you can stop and see their work. Their website is www.ChristopherRobinArts.com. All works are copyright protected.
