Honouring a Friend Through Art on Remembrance Day
Today, on Remembrance Day, I want to share a special project I’ve been working on. It’s a 16×20 inch acrylic on canvas portrait of my good friend Tom, a proud veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces. The journey of creating this piece has been meaningful. It blends my passion for art with the opportunity to celebrate those who have given so much to our country.
From a Chance Meeting to Lasting Friendship
Tom and I met during a meet and greet at a local golf course. What started as casual conversation over a shared love of golf quickly turned into a great friendship. Through Tom and my neighbour Steve, who is also a veteran, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many other veterans. Whether we’re on the greens, exploring the outdoors on our ATVs, or sharing stories over coffee, these connections have enriched my life immensely. Their camaraderie, humour, and resilience have given me a deeper appreciation for those who have served.
A Glimpse into Tom’s Service
Tom’s military career is remarkable. He served in the infantry with the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry and was part of the Canadian 82nd Airborne Regiment. Later, he remastered as a construction technician. His service took him on multiple tours, including the Balkan conflict and Afghanistan. His experiences reflect not only his dedication but also the resilience and courage that define so many of our veterans.
The Artistic Journey
When I set out to paint Tom’s portrait, I wanted to capture more than just a likeness—I aimed to reflect his spirit and the facets of his life that make him who he is. Detailing the 82nd Airborne Regiment insignia on his beret, was a significant part of the process. It symbolizes a notable chapter in his life and honours the commitment he made to serve.
Bringing all these components together was both challenging and rewarding. The goal was to create not just a portrait but a narrative piece that tells the story of his service and the pride he carries for his time in the Armed Forces.
Always Honouring Our Veterans
While Remembrance Day is a significant time to reflect on the sacrifices made by our servicemen and women, it’s important that we honour our veterans every day of the year. Through friendships with Tom and other veterans I’ve met, I’m reminded of the ongoing gratitude we owe to all who have served. Their contributions impact our lives continuously, and I want to honour them—not just today, but every day.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Beyond his military service, I want to thank Tom for all the help he’s given my family and I. Whether we’re fixing my deck or installing a dryer vent, his expertise and willingness to jump in have been invaluable. It’s not every day you find a friend who’s as handy with a hammer as he is with a golf club!
Final Thoughts
Working on this portrait has been a rewarding experience, blending my appreciation for good friends with my love for painting. On this Remembrance Day—and every day—let’s take a moment to acknowledge and thank those who’ve served. Our veterans deserve our recognition and gratitude all year round. To Tom and all the veterans, I’ve had the honour to meet—here’s to more shared stories and lasting friendships.
Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments, and if you’re interested in commissioning a portrait that captures someone special in your life, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Soul N’ Bristle 