LIVING WITH ART BLOG

JRB's Office at JRB Art at The Elms

This week, the sons of a recently deceased patriarch invited me to visit his home to look and evaluate the art their father had acquired during his lifetime. The family, like most caring responsible families, needed information before they could responsibly dispose of his collection. They wanted to know the value of the objects which had been entrusted to them before distributing them to specific family members or having them sold in an estate sale. Bringing in an outsider was a good move on their part. Disposing of the possessions of a departed loved one can cause a lot of conflict. I know, because members of my own family of origin became estranged when my mother died. 

Dealing with the things my late husband left behind was fraught with responsibility and continues to be an emotional process. John left everything to me, but closing his law practice and selling his building were gut wrenching. I did keep all of his art, finding places for it in our home and in various buildings in and around The Paseo. The art, most of which we purchased together, continues to comfort me everyday. Disposing of John’s more mundane possessions like clothes, golf clubs, and automobiles was not as emotional but did require I become a bit creative. The Drama Department at the University of Oklahoma was very pleased to receive his tuxedos, Oxxford Suits, and Cashmere overcoats, because they don’t have a budget to purchase such items for students to wear while performing. Family members and friends seemed thrilled to receive John’s golf clubs and related paraphernalia. I had his wedding ring, which I designed, sized to fit me. In fact I am wearing it today. I found a buyer for the SUV he drove everyday because I thought it was too big for me. But I still have a very old Lexus that he could never bring himself to get rid of. 

Nicole and Aztrid Moan, "Death and Rebirth," Porcelain Corset, 24k Gold, Bamboo, Sequin Fabric and Block Print Chiffon Butterfly, 93 x 22 x 17 in.

My consultation with the family of the man who collected art this week reminded me that I need to really give some serious thought to who will receive the things I value that will be left behind when I die. In our estate plan, John and I made sure The Paseo Properties will go to the Community Foundation. I am not worried about clothes, cars, my modest collection of jewelry, my physical home, or even my beloved books. But I am concerned about what will eventually happen to my art. This morning, before coming to the Gallery, I walked though my house and was overwhelmed at how much all of the art continues to impact me. I also love the art in my Gallery office. In fact, the first painting I purchased in college, on layaway at the rate of $6.00 a month, hangs in my office as it has in every office I have ever had.

Denise Duong, "Be," Acrylic, Ink, Water, Paper on Canvas with Resin, 48 x 36 in.

My consultation with the family of the man who collected art this week reminded me that I need to really give some serious thought to who will receive the things I value that will be left behind when I die. In our estate plan, John and I made sure The Paseo Properties will go to the Community Foundation. I am not worried about clothes, cars, my modest collection of jewelry, my physical home, or even my beloved books. But I am concerned about what will eventually happen to my art. This morning, before coming to the Gallery, I walked though my house and was overwhelmed at how much all of the art continues to impact me. I also love the art in my Gallery office. In fact, the first painting I purchased in college, on layaway at the rate of $6.00 a month, hangs in my office as it has in every office I have ever had.