Sadly, my lovely grandad died
on Sunday 27th December 2015 after a painful and prolonged struggle
with cancer. I was determined that he should have an illustration on his Order
of Service booklet that reflected his personality and love of nature.
The final illustration for
his Order of Service uses old and new drawings taken from my sketchbook. My
favourite illustrations have been collaged together into a colourful wreath
using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Each image represents his interests or
the idea of remembrance.
Rosemary is a traditional herb used in funerals as a symbol of remembrance and memories of loved ones.
Two birds are jauntily
perched at the top of the wreath as he adored them. The robin was a frequent
visitor and could be seen following him around when he was busy working in the
garden.
The text is taken from grandad's handwriting. This is particularly poignant as when I went away to university, grandad wrote to me at least twice a month. This continued up until his first admission to hospital in October 2015. I've treasured each and every letter that he sent me. They are all over my house in little bundles, there's even a few boxes of them in the loft.
I've loved the detailing
of our everyday lives in the letters ranging from the weather and worries to
jobs and children. They document how much our lives have changed over the
years. Some of my favourite letters are from when I lived in Japan. I think
grandad struggled to get to grips with my address in Tokoname as it is
different on each envelope, although his letters always found their way to my
little flat there.
I feel very sad that our
letter writing is at an end. It would take a lot of paper and ink to thank both
my grandparents for so many beautiful memories. They have been my anchor, my
constant in an ever changing world. For now, I'll look at the birds eating the
juicy bright red berries on the berberis shrub outside my kitchen window and be
reminded of all the happy times that we spent together.
(*):
We'll Meet Again - Vera Lynn
We'll meet again
Don't know where
Don't know when
But I know we'll meet again some sunny day
Keep smiling through
Just like you always do
'Till the blue skies drive the dark clouds far away
Don't know where
Don't know when
But I know we'll meet again some sunny day
Keep smiling through
Just like you always do
'Till the blue skies drive the dark clouds far away
So will you please say hello
To the folks that I know
Tell them I won't be long
They'll be happy to know
That as you saw me go
I was singing this song…
To the folks that I know
Tell them I won't be long
They'll be happy to know
That as you saw me go
I was singing this song…
