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Tribute to Diana - ONCE UPON A TIME Original Painting
 DIANA IN ART Compiled by Mem Mehmet 2007 Rich's painting ONCE UPON A TIME is included in the book along with the work of 130 internationally known artists. |
"I feel very proud and gratified to be a part of this important and timely project, especially one realized in such a visually stunning way. It is a powerful, thought-provoking document worthy of such a tragically beautiful and sensitive woman who connected on many levels with people the world over. And of course the inclusion of so many people’s personal thoughts and remembrances adds a whole other level of comprehension which allow the images to communicate on levels even the artist may not have consciously considered. Well done!" ... Rich Thistle | |
| Quote form a review in ATTITUDE Magazine ... "Never less than riveting, we thought we would bring to your attention these exquisite works of art taken from Diana In Art, quite frankly one of the most must-have coffee table books of the millennium." | ||
ONCE UPON A TIME ... Original Painting & Article By Rich Thistle © 1997  Born Diana Frances Spencer July 1, 1961, Lady "Di" married HRH Charles Prince of Wales on July 29, 1981. It seemed to millions around the world to be the kind of pairing only read about in fairy tales. Soon, two sons, Princes William and Harry were born and all seemed well at first. But, over the years, the pressures of life - and such a public one, open to constant and intrusive scrutiny - and certain personal shortcomings were to prove their undoing. The "ideal" royal couple finally succumbed to the sort of marital problems faced by many modern couples and Diana and Charles were divorced in the inevitable glare of ongoing publicity. Then, just as Diana seemed to be building a new life, she died as the result of a tragic car crash on August 31, 1997. My interest in the Royal Family goes back to my childhood. My paternal grandmother was a monarchist, and, in our house, the Royal Family was a topic of ongoing interest. In 1953, my Mother created a scrapbook for me, recording the June 2 coronation of HRM Queen Elizabeth II. I was 7 years old. Because Prince Charles is nearly my age, he became the Royal with whom I could most easily identify. So, when Charles and Diana announced their plans to marry, I was moved to give them a personal wedding gift. Through the Canadian Governor General's office, I sent them a large framed drawing which had been exhibited as part of my first solo exhibition in 1980. Some of the large graphite works in that show portrayed royalty. The particular drawing I gifted to them called WALKING TO WORK, depicted Charles' great uncle, Edward VIII in a moment of royal rebellion, choosing to walk to Buckingham Palace rather than chauffer driven. Immediately after this exhibition and following the announcement of the royal engagement, I began a new work which was meant to celebrate the "story book" union. It was to be a double portrait of the happy couple. I finished a full-scale working drawing, but for some reason it got rolled up and put away. That was in 1981. Several times over the intervening years I looked at it and considered completing the work, but for some reason, I was never motivated to do so. Then came the sudden death of Diana in 1997. I immediately thought of this drawing and made a decision to complete it as a painting and as a tribute to her. It would be my way of dealing with the shock and sadness. In the original working drawing, Charles was actually the dominant figure, and, as in many of their engagement pictures, he seemed much taller than she, although he wasn't. I decided that I would update Diana's portrait making her the significant element in the painting, with a clearer reference to the celebrated, more mature person she had become over the years. Using the same familiar pose as seen in many of the engagement photos, but depicting a more adult Diana was important to the content I wished to express: that note of friction and tension which came to dominate their relationship. At the same time, I wished to capture her vulnerability in this relationship as well as her trademark demure countenance, the head-down, peaking-beneath-the-bangs expression which had helped to endear "shy Di" to millions around the world. I chose to depict Charles in a very casual military sweater, but to represent Diana as a glamorous figure wearing a gown, making reference to her famous wardrobe of designer evening wear. Rather than choose one of her actual dresses, I "designed" one for her, a sort of gown of many (iridescent) colors. For me, this contrast of clothing speaks of two very different people. In the background is a "castle" based on elements of Balmoral, which, over the years, Diana had grown to detest. I surrounded the castle not with expansive lawns but with an impenetrable barrier of tangled brush, reminiscent of the castle where Sleeping Beauty lay waiting for her prince. Behind the figure of Diana is a field of lilies, (her favorite flower) a reference to the acres of flowers which were deposited by her mourners during that unprecedented phenomenon of mass public grief following her death. The decorative Renaissance "arch" element, which I find reminiscent of a puppet theatre stage, relates to the longevity of the institution of British royalty and carries symbolic decoration, including the Prince of Wales' three-feathers-and-crown coat of arms, lilies to represent Diana, English oak leaves and acorns and suggestions of the heavens and astrology, including Diana's sign, Cancer. Diana holds in her hand a red rosebud, signifying youth and beauty, a life just begun, and an obvious reference to her as the "Rose of England". The thorns of the rose warn of pain that often accompanies beauty. And, among the oak leaves in the decorative arch, is a single maple leaf in autumn color identifying the work as one Canadian's tribute to Diana, whom we all claimed as our Princess too. Her engagement ring, prominently displayed, symbolizes a promise made but never kept. His ring suggests that, although he can easily portray the common man in casual clothes on his country estate, he will always be a Prince, the King in waiting. His rather large hand on her shoulder ominously signifies the power and control the Royal Family held over all aspects of Diana's entire adult life. Some may question my inclusion of Charles in a tribute to Diana. I suppose now, because I somehow identify with him, I feel betrayed on a certain level by his failures as an "ideal" husband and role model for my generation. However as the father of Diana's two sons and an important part of their lives, particularly now and in the future, I decided he had to play a significant role it this painting. Perhaps for me, including Charles is a symbol of hope that he will succeed as a father - and a king - where he failed as a husband. After all it was only through her relationship to Charles that Diana would become world famous and so greatly admired. Without him, she may well have lived out her life in relative obscurity rather than as a larger-than-life world figure, the "Princess of Hearts". I am very pleased to have my painting represented in Mem,Mehmet's book DIANA IN ART. Obviously many other artists have been similarly moved by this short but momentous life. ONCE UPON A TIME is an acrylic painting, 38" x 29". ONCE UPON A TIME |
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Customer Comments
"I am the author of THE TUNNEL KING; THE TRUE STORY OF WALLY FLOODY AND THE GREAT ESCAPE. I asked especially for Mr. Thistle's painting IN THE BALANCE, for the cover and was absolutely thrilled to hear that he had granted permission to my publisher. Now that I have seen the cover, I am more than ever convinced that there couldn't be a better image for the front of the book. I wanted to pass on my thanks personally, and say again how much I admire that painting and Mr. Thistle's other military art."
Barbara Hehner
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Barbara Hehner
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"My full compliments! Awesome work! Superb use of colour - and a great web site. What a breath of fresh air and Canadian to boot!"
Bruce Douglas
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Bruce Douglas
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"The print is superb! Truly beautiful! I really love that one. Same feeling as when I first saw the original in Stratford. I am soooo happy! Thanks for the kind words. I am fortunate to know both of you personally, and am happy that we keep in touch. It adds an extra sentimental value to my prints, representing a highlight in my career, captured by a wonderful artist that I know. It does not get any better!"
Capt. Patrick Ouellet
Snowbird #8 (1999-2000)
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Capt. Patrick Ouellet
Snowbird #8 (1999-2000)
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"The poster is a birthday present for our dear lady friend Lesley Martin, who flew the Cessna 180 floatplane commercially in Queensland, Australia some 15 years ago. It has been a pleasure to do business with you."
Capt. Yan Boerop Russell, Northland, New Zealand
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Capt. Yan Boerop Russell, Northland, New Zealand
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"The painting has arrived and I'm thrilled! It will look great in our new house and reminds me of home. I come from near Seaford and used to play golf regularly from roughly where the picture is taken from. Incidentally, we also stopped at Tangmere on my birthday last year. Great, great, great! "
Colin Hayward, Leymen, France
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Colin Hayward, Leymen, France
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"I finally had time today to visit your virtual exhibition THE HEART OF STRATFORD. What a magnificent presentation! You must be very proud of your accomplishment. I am sure that the developer and the people of Stratford, including visitors, will enjoy your work for years to come. Congratulations on this tremendous accomplishment."
Garry Clifford, British Columbia
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Garry Clifford, British Columbia
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"I wanted to let you know I received 'The High Road' poster. Thank you so much for signing it. I know Barry will love it. He is such a wonderful history teacher and has a real passion for Canadian historical content especially in the two world wars. This is a wonderful parting gift for him. I can't thank you enough!"
Gail McIntosh, Vancouver
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Gail McIntosh, Vancouver
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"Thanks so much for checking to make sure the print arrived. UPS delivered it on Thursday morning and I took it in to be framed right away. I am really pleased with the print and I know my son is really going to love it. Thanks again."
Heather Doerksen, Agassiz BC
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Heather Doerksen, Agassiz BC
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"The poster arrived today. Talk about speedy delivery! It's wonderful! The original must be really something! I find it quite nostalgic. In the early 60's I used to fly over Ontario with a friend, in a small Cessna. It was really a lot of fun. Brings back good memories."
Helen Howes, Toronto
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Helen Howes, Toronto
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"The 30th Snowbird Anniversary is already two weeks old and the Team is busy with the winter work-ups in preparation for next year's show season. It was an outstanding way to close out our 30th season. Allowing us to use your creativity and talent in the creation of FLYING THE FLAG and giving us carte blanche in the use of that image really gave us flexibility in planning the weekend. Without your loyal and dedicated support, the weekend would not have been the success it was. It was truly an honour to have you both at the reunion. I extend my heartfelt gratitude and thanks for exceptional dedication and generosity. The Snowbirds are fortunate to have you as true friends."
Sincerely,
J.G.R. 'Cowboy' Painchaud, Major
Commanding Officer 1999-2000-2001
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Sincerely,
J.G.R. 'Cowboy' Painchaud, Major
Commanding Officer 1999-2000-2001
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"Just a note to let you know how thrilled I am to be the owner of your original watercolor, DOUBLE DIAMOND RADICAL TWINS. Your painting is hanging in a home that appreciates fine art. My late father, James Penman Rae, was an artist and writer. He left his eight children a legacy of beautiful paintings and writings (poetry and prose) and an appreciation of the sacrifice, dedication and talent that is embodied in each work of art. Your painting of the Snowbirds is treasured by our family. Thank you for creating this beautiful piece of Canadian art!"
Janis Stewart
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Janis Stewart
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"I was pleased to read in the Beacon Herald that you have completed your artwork on the facade of Stratford Place, entitled THE HEART OF STRATFORD. Residents and visitors alike will be able to enjoy your magnificent paintings of Stratford for years to come. These pieces act as a time capsule to preserve the present image of Stratford while recapturing the city's history. Your contribution to enhancing the beauty of downtown Stratford through your artistry is a commendable achievement. Congratulations on the completion of this project and best wishes for continued success."
John Richardson, M.P. Perth-Middlesex, Ontario
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John Richardson, M.P. Perth-Middlesex, Ontario
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Comments in postscript, by Colonel Phil 'Hands' Handley in his book, NICKEL ON THE GRASS...
"The painting RHINO CHARGE shown on the cover is from the easel of noted Canadian artist, Rich Thistle. Working from charts, diagrams, pictures, models and innumerable exchanges with the author, he dramatically captured a historically significant instant of aerial combat with stunning accuracy. I will always be grateful to Rich Thistle for the tenacity, dedication and patience he showed in the creation of this painting which hangs proudly over my bar, and shall forever be a treasured possession."
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"The painting RHINO CHARGE shown on the cover is from the easel of noted Canadian artist, Rich Thistle. Working from charts, diagrams, pictures, models and innumerable exchanges with the author, he dramatically captured a historically significant instant of aerial combat with stunning accuracy. I will always be grateful to Rich Thistle for the tenacity, dedication and patience he showed in the creation of this painting which hangs proudly over my bar, and shall forever be a treasured possession."
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"Sir, you are a messenger who communicates with paint. "Lone Wolf" remains an excellent representation of the moment, to such a degree that it truly caught my eye. It makes people look, wonder and hopefully explore. The message is the whole canvas, not the tiny details."
R. (Randy) Green
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R. (Randy) Green
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"I got your DREAM print of the Avro Arrow for my birthday. Thank you Rich for the added words ... just what I needed. I share the Canadian perspective with those who visit our current home in Virginia. THANK YOU for your great print and the excellent service you gave my wife."
Scott & Karen Macleod, Virginia, USA
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Scott & Karen Macleod, Virginia, USA
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