I have been wanting to recreate this image for a few years. I thought it lended itself well to add an AR component to it. After I repainted the image I wrote a poem, then asked a 6th grade boy, a sibling from one of the cross country kids I coach, to read the poem for me which created the alternative reality piece. I explain how the AR works in the text below the image.The original Image was created in several steps. First, I captured photographs to use for reference. I then created a digital painting in Corel Painter. In this case I created a matrix to use in my painting. That is, most of my values and form were painted in digital. It was then printed on sized canvas and glued to a handmade a cradled panel. A few coats of clear varnish were added to seal the pigment, then it was painted with cold wax and oil. After curing it was waxed and buffed.
Daddy I am here but you can't see
the life your sacrifice prepared for me
I promise to do my very best
to remember your gift until I to rest
I promise to be the best I can be
to remember God made just one of me
I am unique in some ways, many like you
I will pray, learn and grow 'til I fit in your shoes
God gave a son, I gave a dad
I will try to brave and not be sad
knowing that God will step in and fill
days camping and fishing and other dad thrills
The life to be lived
The life you have given
Are part of the plan
For Christ is risen
I will stand for the pledge not take a knee
To acknowledge the sacrifices made for me
Then if I am called to be just like you
Gods grace and mercy will carry me through
I miss you daddy I really do
I want to do many things with you
Riding tall on your shoulders and catch in the yard
Seeing the smile on your face at the game that I starred
(played)
I will make it to heaven and there I will see
God waiting with you, welcoming me
His peels of laughter and warm embrace
I hear and feel when I see your face
I love you Daddy, You are my hero
