Medium: Oil on Canvas

Canvas Size: 18”w x 14” h

This original painting was painted by artist Bradley J. Parrish, in 1973, when the artist was 15 years old. Brad had given this original oil painting to his dear friend and classmate Maria Karpfinger in 1974.  Maria traveled throughout Europe after graduating from high school, later calling New York City her new home.  She worked with the Central Park Conservancy, in Central Park, introducing urban children to nature. Then finally moving back home to Milwaukee, Wisconsin where she continued her mission of service to children, nature, and her community.

Over 40 years Maria visited Brad regularly during her trips home, until finally, one afternoon, Maria arrived on Brad’s doorstep. She carried with her this original painting he had given to her all those years ago. Brad had completely forgotten about this piece and was confused when she told him she was returning it to him. Brad could not understand why and told Maria that he did not want it back, that “it was my gift to you”. She told Brad that “this painting has, throughout my life, given me such peace and completeness. It helped me through so many trying times in my life; I can’t find the words to describe what this painting has meant to me. I want you to have it and I won’t take no for an answer”. Brad reluctantly received it back from her. In the days that would follow this visit, Brad would hear from a mutual friend that Maria had tragically passed away. 

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