On Buffalos and Community

When a male buffalo gets old, he either goes out into the world and spends the rest of his days alone, or he forms a very small herd with other male buffalos who are also too old to keep up with the herd. 

Although buffalos are famously grumpy, I like to think that the ones who venture out with their “friends” (I know they aren’t friends, really) are able to defend themselves better because they can protect each other. 

Brothers - Oil on canvas, 102 x 76 cm

I would consider myself a very independent person -- I can manage most things on my own. But I always lean on my people for support, and it makes me happy when they reach out to me for help, too. I hate to think of people out there who don't have anyone to lean on, and I think sometimes our world is so fast-paced that it is easy to get left behind. 

I called this painting 'Brothers,' but it's really about being together in tough times more than about blood or family. It's all about community. I suppose this painting is my way of saying: we’re not meant to do everything alone.

Do you think it's easy to create a community today?

Who are the people you lean on, and would you go out of your way to help a stranger?

I'd really love to know, and I always read and respond to every email.