I just received this email yesterday.  I found it inspiring.  It’s so neat to have people from various places around the world find my art work and be moved by it enough to write me.  It creates a real sense of connection.  I was touched, in particular by this one.

Hello, Rex:

First of all, I do very much like your paintings … Actually, I more than like. They are superb!

Secondly, I too, am a Bean though that’s my married name. My husband is a direct descendant of John MacBean as you probably well know all about the MacBean origin, etc. my husband’s proud Scottish ancestor, John MacBean at war w/England, sent to New England, Massachusetts and there his name was shortened to Bean. Long story short: Massachusetts to New Hampshire and then to Maine well, my husband’s line though there are other Bean lines throughout New England.

Hmmm, perhaps I’m not telling you anything any more interesting than digesting Haggis but then, to some folks, haggis is a delicious repast.

No matter. I just wanted to tell you that I love your art … I hope that you’ll excuse my boldness – I’m nearing 80 years old, Irish/French/Algonquin. Quebec/Ireland parentage, born in Maine, USA …

Note: I oil paint; Never attended classes ergo don’t know what I’m doing but love it and learn from seeing, reading and experiencing.

I wish you safety and health and greater notice of your art than you have already acquired … You are, in fact, an artist!

Sincerely, AliceMary Bean   …