One of my mentors, artist Dennis Burton, passed away on Monday…his memorial takes place tonight in Vancouver. I wish I could be there.
Recently, after pulling out some old notebooks, I’d realized how much he’d impacted my life and was in the midst of writing him a thank-you letter when I got the news.
In those art journals – next to notes I’d scribbled down on art history, reincarnation, golden-mean relationships, the ten commandments translated into geometry, colour perception wave lengths and why storms are named after women (all according to Dennis Burton), was this doodle I’d done of him.
A larger-than-life character, intense, passionate, aggravating, playful, innovative and astute, Dennis was a natural story-teller and gifted jazz musician, in addition to being an incredible artist and true pioneer in the Canadian art scene.
I send heartfelt blessings across the miles to Diane, Maihyet, Varyn and extended family members.
RIP Dennis, your lifelong contribution as artist and educator have forever secured your place in art history. Your integrity and presence on the planet certainly made a difference in my life...thank you.
‘Dennis Doodle’ © 2013 Cathy Gazda, sketch with pen (done over 40 years ago). ♥
Written in the side margins, next to this doodle:
"If you don't discipline yourself, someone else will." – Dennis Burton
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