Yesterday's debut of the September 11 paintings by my friend George Kokines at the Gail Borden Public Library was a big success. There's a nice piece of coverage on it at The Courier-News website, including a photograph of the Ground Zero piece (but ignore the characterization of the mixed-media pieces as a sculpture).
The library is a lovely building, and the organizers did a wonderful job of arranging the three pieces in the facility's rotunda. If the estimated 200 attendees hadn't been moved enough by the art, they were brought to their feet for a standing ovation after George's emotional description of the pieces and his experiences of the day that defines them.
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn sent along a declaration honoring the occasion, and after it was read, I got to recite my three poems that were inspired by George's paintings (Morning, our tomorrow; Saint Nicholas; and Silver Wings). Despite a mild case of nerves, I didn't trip over any lines.
I'd like to thank George for including me in such a special occasion, and Kate Burlette, Director of Library Experiences, who acted as emcee and created a nice display for each of the poems next to the corresponding paintings.
4 comments:
Dear Francis,
I could not tell that you were nervous. Your read all 3 poems very well. The poems complement the artwork beautifully and really helped set the tone for the event. I find Silver Wings particularly moving. Thank you for being such a good friend to my Uncle, and thank you to all of his Roger's Park friends who came out to Elgin yesterday.
Sincerely,
Dori Poulos
Hi Dori,
I'm glad you like Silver Wings. It was great to be a part of the event, and I know it wouldn't have happened without you. Thanks also for such a lovely gathering afterwards. I'm still full from all that great food :).
This sounds like a splendid occasion. Your poems and George's art work so well together. Very strong works! Congrat.
Belated congratulations on the reading of your poems on this special occasion.Good for you Francis!
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