Lobsterdad

I was painting on Perkins Cove in Ogunquit, Maine when I saw a real life lobsterman walk past, orange bibs and all. I dropped my brushes and caught up with him. “Could I take your picture?” He looked down from his truck and waited a beat.

 “Can I take yours?” he quipped. And so I was introduced to Mr. Rick Dolliver, lobsterman, father, husband and owner of That Place restaurant. As we talked Rick told me about this son, who had pulled in dozens of lobsters that season. His son is five.  

For dinner Dale and I and our boys walked into “That Place” where I was greeted by Rick’s wife, Boriana. She took my name and exclaimed “Oh, you’re the artist!” We were seated and enjoyed a delicious meal, complete with a cinnamon ringed pumpkin beer. By the end of the meal, Boriana and Rick had asked to purchase my plein air painting for their restaurant.  Lobsterman now hangs in Ogunquit. They have since purchased Tying Down another version of this Lobsterdad. 

For Father’s Day, I offer this painting, Lobsterdad, because this is how we know the good fathers. They let their children learn daily at their side, not in a classroom, not from the experts, but from their every day mistakes and hard-won skills.  This is how culture changes. Bravo to the fathers who let their children accompany them. A toast to the dads who know their boys all the way to adulthood, Happy Father’s Day!