I  received an email regarding a request for submission to a group show  “Put a bird on it” from the Glassell School of Art and Patrick Palmer. This show would be a group show of his current/former students that would run in conjunction with his show, “Imagined Ancestors.” organized by the Museum of Fine Arts. It had been a few years since I had painted so I was a bit hesitant to submit.  Sure I had continued my art in many different ways but to sit down and paint what was in my heart….I had not done in years.  I felt I had nothing to say and didn't think I could create a piece that would be fitting for the show let alone be accepted. I remember Patrick would say to me, paint from your heart Cathy. That was the key, to paint from my heart. However, life had overwhelmed me in recent years and I didn't know if I wanted to relive any of those feelings again so I did as I do in everything now, I prayed. I prayed for guidance, I prayed for discernment, I prayed that if this was something that would glorify Him then lead me. So with that and a little nudging from my son who is also an artist, I sat in front of my easel and began to paint.  What came next was an outpouring of thoughts, feelings and emotions inspired by the events of the previous years.  I can't say that the finished piece was the same that I started with but isn't that what the road to healing often looks like? A starting point with many twists and turns and realizing that how it starts is usually not how it ends. He knows what we need and it's not always what we think it should look like.  Was it hard? Of course, but it was also a very powerful healing experience. It helped heal a part of me that desperately needed to be  loved. I hope that you have a chance to see it. My prayer is that it heals a tiny part of you that needs love. But if not, at least you see the love that was poured into this painting. 

My story is a story of brokenness, betrayal, forgiveness, healing, hope and love. The details of my story are not important, as I am sure many have lived through similar experiences. My story is about the ONE who carried me and sat with me in the ashes of my life. The ONE who saved me and loved me through my brokenness. The ONE that has always been there whether I acknowledged Him or not. I titled my painting Psalm 109:4 which is about betrayal and dependence on God during times of trials. 

“Imagined Ancestors”, is Patrick Palmer’s first show to be organized by the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. He is the true star of the show. His faces and larger than life pieces will amaze you. I briefly saw it as they were hanging the show. It is phenomenal. You can find his show in the Levant Gallery on the first floor of the Glassell School of Art adjacent to the MFAH Nancy and Rich Kinder Building. It runs in conjunction with “Put a Bird on it” in the Bucher Gallery on the second floor of the Glassell. This show is a collection of works by his current/former students. I am honored and humbled to be a part of this show. It runs from August 22, 2026 - October 4, 2026.  Bucher Gallery, Glassell School of Art, MFAH

With love and gratitude,  Cathy