Immaculate Conceptions (6x3)

[Mike Handley]

“Isn’t it gorgeous?” the woman beamed, thrusting the just-framed decoupage plaque in front of the art gallery’s owner.

“Sure is,” he smiled gently. “Did you do it?”

“Goodness, no,” she answered. “It was done by … by …,” she fidgeted with the edge, as if trying to peer under a corner. “I guess it doesn’t have an artist.”

* * *

She tilted the piece -- an old clapboard church, a verse of scripture torn from a bible, and one or two more things I forget -- as if looking for brush strokes in the varnish. She then retreated back to her Buick at the curb, which was as white as her capri pants and hair.

The woman never said goodbye.

“So sad,” the gallery’s proprietor almost moaned. “She’s onset-Alzheimer’s.

“It’s a wonder she’s still driving,” he added.

* * *

Later that afternoon, another woman entered the gallery.

“I just bought a fabulous painting over at the antique store, and I was wondering if you could ...”

“Tell you what it’s worth?” the proprietor finished her question.

“Why, yes,” she said.

“Sorry, we don’t evaluate artwork unless it’s from a well known artist.”

“I didn’t see a name,” she replied. “I guess it doesn’t have an artist.”

[Toby Tucker Hecht]

Most paintings don't have artists; they have hacks.

[Stephen Torelli]

unnamed beauty

[Cita]

You rock, Mike Handley. 

[Teresa]

Funny piece.  It gave me the impulse to rush downstairs and take a picture of something miraculous...

I'm sorry, I couldn't resist.  This is Chester's holy rear.  No signature.  There is a creator!!!  And I am SO going to Hell...if there is one.  Love this piece and Chester thanks you for his fifteen minutes.

[Ron. Lavalette]

Hair/ pants/ Buick...Color coordination is important.

Enjoyed this very much; the search for varnished brushstrokes, unknown artists.  All of it.

[Sandra Davies]

This title ... wow.   What a mind you have Mr. Handley.   To say nothing of your other talents ...

[Gita]

OMG. This is hilarious. Immaculate indeed -- your writing and the title.