ChriSin Limites

There  is a wonderful coffee shop next to “Ocean State of Mind” called “Kafe  Terra”. While I was working on my very first commission, I stopped in there for a dose of caffeine. As the owner was operating the espresso  machine he leaned in and said: “You know, my barista is a fan of  yours!”, and turning the other way he added: “Hey Chris, why don’t you  ask him what you asked me?”.

A  young man stepped into view from behind him. He introduced himself and  complimented my artwork. He asked in a shy way if I could one day do a  watercolor painting of his food truck. I was stunned and had to find my own bearings. This would be my second watercolor commission. This was  still all very new to me and I was instantly more shy than Chris. I told him that I would love to.

When I told my wife about the meeting, she was filled with enthusiasm. “That’s  CHRISin Limites. I follow him on social media. He's an incredible and inspiring chef with Down Syndrome! How wonderful that you met him!”

The  painting didn’t happen right away. We stumbled back and forth for the  next few months. I visited his food truck and we talked. There was a bit  of a language barrier on my end.

Until one night at Artwalk. I was set up in front of “Ocean State of Mind” as always. “Kafe Terra” was just closing and the owner emerged with a big  smile. He told me “Hey, you know Chris still wants that picture!”.

My heart leapt. “Really!?”

“Yes!”  He responded “And next week is Down Syndrome Day. Do you think you  could have it done by then? I would love to give it to him as a gift.”

I  set to work the following Saturday as soon as the food truck opened.   It was supposed to be a surprise, so we ordered some food and I discreetly roughed out a sketch. I then took a lot of reference  pictures.

I finished the painting at home adding all the details I could from my photos and delivered it to the “Kafe Terra” just in time.

I met Chris the next Saturday and he was just beaming about his gift.  Later Daisy showed me a video on facebook, where he revealed the  painting to his followers.

This  has been another mind-blowing experience. I was definitely touched by  Chris’s spirit. Both his parents are incredibly positive, and powerful people as well. And I hope that we  will get to know each other better over time. Chris' food is truly amazing. I  think everyone in town should take a trip to the CHRISin Limites food truck. It’s just good for the soul.