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I could not be Joan

| 25 Jul 2024 | 11:46
    I could not be Joan
    By the Sea, a painting the author made in the Goshen studio of Joan Keefer-Bowden, her longtime art teacher. The painting is currently on display in the Albert Wisner Public Library.
    By the Sea, a painting the author made in the Goshen studio of Joan Keefer-Bowden, her longtime art teacher. The painting is currently on display in the Albert Wisner Public Library. ( Lisa Lachover-Merksamer)

How were we so lucky to meet
Always looking out for everyone
Out of the oven, fresh baked muffins
Always a cup of tea or coffee

Gently you explained your craft
But no matter how I tried
I could not be Joan
To marvel in her presence was enough

Her priceless copies of old masters
The attention to detail
The exact precise workmanship
I was daunted by her method

Which she gladly explained
I could not be Joan
Under her skillful supervision
I was able to turn out a few paintings

They even went into an art show
The moments I treasure most
Laughing as only two friends would
Covid came and we made do

Meeting for lessons outdoors in the park
God served her a stroke
We kept in touch after she moved away
Now it seems she is coming back

Resume lessons & life
I could not be Joan

- Lisa Lachover-Merksamer
Warwick NY

Lachover-Merksamer wrote this poem about her longtime art teacher, Joan Keefer-Bowden, who moved back to the area recently. The women have resumed their art lessons.