In 2009 as I sanded and repainted an old bench at the cottage, I composed a poem. Now, 15 years later, I’ve created this painting inspired by the poem.
Old Paint
sanding flaking paint how can it be twenty years
I didn’t notice changes from young bride
to middle age weather-worn paint
testament to summer sun & rain
how many times has this bench been restored
I follow her hand surprised we never met
I’ve followed her along these paths
stepping on stones that haven’t changed
rescuing daddy long legs just before it sticks
they say this bench was old when it was brought here
a wet paint sign in front of a Fire Hall
was it red I look for traces under layers of cottage green
I paint a second coat and wonder
will anyone think of me and the summers of my life
as they scrape flecks of weathered paint
from this old cottage bench
– Ruth Maude
