NONSENSE TO THE SIDE

Years ago when Janice Lowry learned that I was scouting art for Belle Armoire, she offered to me without hesitation, the exquisite artwear that she had created. She invited me into her home, made me feel welcome, and lavished me not only with her prized creations, but with her trust and confidence. It is this warmth, trust and confidence that I was made to feel each and every time that she would hand over art to me throughout the years for Somerset Studio — the magazine for which she was more than an editorial advisor, but a guardian angel.

When Janice learned that my daughter was interested in mixed-media art, she invited both of my kids over to learn about her perspective and her techniques.

 

 

Whenever I've been in need, Janice has always been quick to open up her studio and her incredible body of work to gently guide me, mentor me, and always encourage me.

One Christmas, she surprised me with this assemblage she made ... which she titled "Blocking" ... in honor of her mother who did a lot of protective blocking when she sensed the presence of danger getting too close. When I received it, I wondered how though Janice and I had never talked about specific dangers in either of our lives, she figured out intuitively that "Blocking" was something I would understand and appreciate.

 

Earlier this year, Janice was diagnosed with liver cancer. And as soon as I learned, I reached out to Lynne Perrella and Michelle Ward. And with their support, we reached out to the art community:

Incredible brushes were received from many artists, which I had the pleasure of delivering to Janice, along with heartfelt messages of love and support. Janice was deeply moved by this gesture and I know that she understood how very much she has been an inspiration to many, and how her work will have positive reverberations within the art community for generations to come.

Today, I had the opportunity to visit with Janice again. This time, I did not bring brushes. Only a heavy heart, as I entered her home where she is under the care of hospice, as her loved ones — most of all her beloved husband Jon — work to comfort her in this last chapter of her life. Earlier this evening, I wrote to the artists who participated in the brushes project to let them know about the visit. I explained that though Janice's body has become frail as the ravages of cancer has spread to her spine and now her lungs, the beauty of her spirit remains resilient. 

And that when I asked Janice if there was a message she wanted me to convey back to the art community, she said: "Tell them to keep working and to always enjoy the process." 

I can't quite remember a day when my heart has been as filled with sadness as it is today. But I am also very thankful that I was able to have today with Janice ... an artist who decisively and swiftly and constantly stood up with me and for me from my very first day as an editor ... an artist who taught me that sometimes you have to practice "blocking" ... but that most times, you have to just push all the nonsense to the side and get to the business of creating, working hard, and moving forward.

PS: Janice and Jon invite visitors to their blog that documents this difficult journey.

Comments

[Tami B.]

Wow. Thank you for this post. Prayers to the lovely Janice and her family. Amazing how the spirit stays so positive & strong.

[jackie]

Thank You for this touching blog today. I lost my sister to lung cancer almost 3 years ago....it is difficult to see loved ones go through this horrible disease, but like you I do cherish the memories,fun times and spirit of those we have lost. Thanks again Jenny for sharing.

[Colette]

Jenny, I'm in utter disbelief. I don't mind admitting here in the open that I wept on reading this post. I discovered Janice Lowry thanks to Somerset Studio years ago, and have always been a huge admirer of hers -- for her works and for her spirit. My special candle will burn for her and her family.

Thank you for letting us know. xo

[Deborah]

Oh, so sad for you and all Janice's loved ones.

[Wendy McDonagh-Valentine]

Thank you for sharing Janice's story, Jenny. I visited her husband's blog and let him know that the blogging community is praying for her. My 35 year old sister was diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer, colon to her liver almost a year and a half ago and has been doing incredibly well. Thank you, God. Janice sounds like an incredibly beautiful woman, both inside and out. Her story has truly touched me and I will continue to follow her journey. I will say a prayer for you, too. I'm so sorry that you have to see your friend go thru this. God bless. : )

Namaste ~ Wendy

[Julie]

Crying now.

EVERY day for the past three years..when I go to bed, I pray for a cure for cancer. Every day. It's something you can't forget.. I want to forget it..I wish I was a scientist.

[lisa kaus]

My prayers are with her and her family- thanks for sharing