Our first baby collector – Gaspar's Story
Gaspar was only two months old when “A Woman’s Home” came into his life. Maria R Saunders’ painting, a 30x30 cm square, found its place on the wall and remained there as this little one was beginning to focus his eyes on the world around him.
Gaspar’s parents first glanced at this painting at the Subjektiv exhibition in Lisbon, and as collectors and admirers of Maria R Saunders’ work, they loved it - they were not exactly looking for something, but given its size they knew it would find its place in their home as it had found its place in their hearts.
Today, months later, their daily ritual tour around the house has evolved into something beautiful. His parents walk around the house to see artworks, with Gaspar cradled in loving arms, stopping at each piece as if they were visiting old friends. There is something special about their pause at “A Woman’s Home.” His mother explains that this painting depicts a house in Alentejo - warm, earthy colours that speak the same language as the Portuguese countryside.
Gaspar loves paintings with pure and unfiltered enthusiasm, something only babies and young children possess and that we are too shy to show. There is no intellectual analysis or historical art context whatsoever. There is just a response to colours, form and texture. His fingers stretch toward the painted surfaces, wanting to experience the texture because sometimes eyes are not enough.
It is beautiful to see how a baby grows with art around him, from two months old to growing as a child - reactions will change and layers will be discovered. As an adult, I am reminded that sometimes the most profound way to see art is through a baby’s unclouded eyes.
Next time there is a new baby in the house or family home, think of this and maybe you will consider choosing a small artwork so that the baby can live and grow with it.
