A couple of weeks ago, I got a text from a client, now friend: could she come to the studio? It seems that her daughter had expressed a wistful desire to have a Stebner painting of her own when she moved across the country to join the work force. No time wasted, Caroline was here with a friend, making the rounds.  Tea and madeleines in the studio gave time to reflect, and  "Far From Home" was the clear choice. 

The best part of this story is the way Caroline decided to present the gift. Her accountant mind determined that all the belongings could be shipped for free if they were packed into her daughter's VW Bug before it was transported to San Diego. My painting would be wrapped and hidden with everything else, only to be discovered upon arrival. I've had the best time imagining the entire adventure. 

The real take on this story is this: Caroline built an appreciation for art in her children from an early age. Trips to art museums have always been a part of their family life. When art appreciation happens in such an organic fashion, the probability of a new generation of art collectors increases. So does Hope for the Future.