The length of one of my best friend's hair at the time of our first meeting never fails to amaze me (we're talking Crystal Gayle). I met Leslie way back when in Denton, Texas. We became instant friends and life long supporters of each other's artistic pursuits. Her gorgeous singing voice also never fails to amaze me. Leslie Sisson is an incredible musician.
During our younger years I often watched her play solo shows in coffee shops. At some point in the early stages of our friendship we made a brief attempt to play music together but quickly realized I was better suited to hold paint brushes. More recently I've been heading over to the Doug Fir everytime she comes through Portland with two bands she perfects: The Wooden Birds and Matt Pond PA.
Leslie has been hard at work on a new solo album. There was no hesitation on my end when she asked if I'd like to do the artwork for it. My favorite track (at first listen anyway - they're all favorites now) was Harmony, a hauntingly beautiful song evoking images of a vast open sea.
The early stages of a six panel watercolor and ink painting:
Paper waves added:
And finally the girl in a boat, keeping whether she is headed home or out toward the stormy sea all to herself.
