Calliope

On the evening I painted Calliope, I was inspired by Joanne, one of my closest friends from high school. I hadn't seen her in years, and she was coming to visit me in Brooklyn, New York. Back when we were younger, we could spend hours dancing at local clubs or goofing around listening to music for hours. 

The anticipation of reconnecting with her brought back those fun memories, and I decided to paint for a bit before she landed. With energizing R&B music playing in the background, the central essence of the art was clearly musical when I realized that big music notes had accidentally appeared.

When I posted the finished painting online for title ideas, the suggestions were overwhelmingly musical. A former fellow Hallmark artist and friend Teresa Roberts Logan suggested "Calliope," and when I looked up the meaning, I knew it was perfect. Teresa is also known as "Laughing Redhead" and an accomplished comic book artist, author, and stand-up comedian.

In Greek mythology, Calliope is the muse and goddess of music, song, dance, and epic poetry. The name beautifully honors the music and dancing we shared in our youth, while simultaneously celebrating her daughter, Callie, who is an award-winning dancer. Together, the composition perfectly captures the spirit of movement, music, friendship, and celebration.

The ultimate irony? Joanne's plane was repeatedly delayed and eventually canceled, so we never actually got to meet up that weekend!

Original Painting:

22" x 30"

Black Ink, Walnut ink, Liquid Acrylic, on Watercolor Paper