If you know me, then you know I'm not really a follower of tradition. It's not that I don't have respect for tradition, it's more that I want to make things my own. So last year when I was speaking with Clintel Steed at his studio in Brooklyn, I thought of a way to make a tradition my own - I asked him if he would paint our portrait.

The family portrait is an historical document, a moment in time captured for future generations. Painted from life in his studio, my daughters and I were allowed entry into the world of an artist. The method, the mannerism, the mechanics, the movement - we were the observers and the observed. After many sittings, many hours and many movies on his computer, I'm completely honored and totally psyched to share our portrait with you. Some of my friends will recognize the green jungle print jacket that I wear to most 'fancy' engagements. Seemed only fitting that I wore it for our portrait. This portrait is currently on view at the Sweet Lorraine Gallery in Red Hook, Brooklyn in a show called INTO VIEW until the 31st. I hope you'll visit the show to see Clintel's work as well as the work of several other incredibly talented artists. After the 31st, you'll have to come over to our apartment to see the painting. ;-) hkv