We lost someone so immensely special...not only to the art world as a whole, rather to the individual souls that treaded through it. If you were ever graced by the presence of Carol Bishop, as a teacher, as a mentor, you knew that she was rigid but so welcoming. My first day of class, I already knew I could paint, and was offended that she insisted I take Painting I again, and fought my way into Painting II. On the first day of class she handed me the primary colors and told me to paint the figure in front of me, I struggled without the jazz of the brightly colored, pre-mixed tubes of paint I usually hid behind and soon realized not only could I have learned so much by taking her introductory class, it would have given me more time in all that was Carol. She didn’t just show up and instruct a “class;” she formed a community. Everyone looked forward to our time together, it was something transforming, something cherished. I was a lost and unconfident human being, and she brought out my voice. Not only did I find a life-long, bonding love of art from her, I also found a newfound curiosity of life and all of the “chiaroscuro” that makes it so worth living; for the light spaces in Rembrandt’s pieces would not be as vivid if it were not for the dark. Thank you so much Carol for not only being a teacher, a mentor, and a friend, but also being a role model for what I still hope to do with my life. I would not be who I am if it weren’t for you and I am forever thankful to have known you. The only reason I hadn’t reached out to you in awhile was because I had wished to be so much greater than am, but I realize now that where we are at is enough, and I regret not letting you know what difference you made. Thank you for this beautiful watercolor you painted of me. I would give anything to paint alongside you one last time. Rest In Peace, dear friend.