The Art Don’t Stop

I first stumbled upon Todd’s artwork at a gallery opening in the Mission. I remember thinking his pieces were full of life, color, and like those awesome digital posters at the mall in the 90s, the more you look and stare at them, the more awesomeness you uncover popping out at you.
And then a year or so later, having completely forgotten about his art, I was struggling with coming up with the perfect gift idea for my brother’s wedding. I couldn’t just get him a set of 600 thread count sheets, or a casserole dish that would get returned like all the other guests. I was the best man for god’s sake! Whatever I was gonna get him and my now sister in-​law, it had to have meaning (for both of them) and have staying power.
So my partner came up with the genius idea of commissioning a piece of artwork for them. They had a home together that could use some decorating (if you know what I mean), they both like art, and it wasn’t from a registry… it would be one of a kind.
A few days later I saw Todd painting at Saturday Streets in the Mission and asked him if I could commission him to paint an original piece of artwork as a wedding gift. We agreed on a price upfront, which I have to tell you was more than reasonable, and I told him what I was thinking as far as subject matter and let him come up with the rest. I sent him a few pictures I had of my brother and his fiancé traveling around the world, and I told him about how he proposed and some other things I knew they would recognize and laugh about.
A few weeks later, I went to pick up the finished piece and I couldn’t have been happier. He captured everything I could imagine (and more) in one whimsical painting that I almost wanted to keep for myself.
When I brought it to San Diego to give to my brother and his wife a few weeks after their wedding, they were more than pleased. They couldn’t stop staring at it and noticing all the charm and nuances that pretty much summed up their lives together while they dated and were engaged.
Quite possibly the best wedding present I’ve ever given and I just wanted to make sure Todd knew how appreciative I was of his talent and willingness to work with me on this project.
Thanks Todd for doing such a good job. Now talk about which of your pieces I’m going to hang in my own home!