For Lee

Lee Deffebach, the dame of abstract painters, passed away this past week at age 76. I did not know her well; to claim otherwise would be disingenuous. I did, however, interview her on several occasions, the most memorable being a 2003 visit where she spoke candidly about the state of visual art in America and her fierce commitment to creating fresh and challenging work. Her daringness, her vision, ultimately her art always brought me great pleasure, and I am saddened that those talented hands have — at least in this sphere of existence — been silenced.

And so, because I can, here's "Orange Crush" (acrylic on canvas, 34 by 34 inches), one of Lee's paintings from her 2003 exhibit at Phillips Gallery.

Enjoy.