Every artist gets their inspiration somewhere. Mine happens to be from music, especially Jazz music, but more specifically, from Steely Dan.My husband and I made the trek down to Toronto this past Friday, in order to witness this year's entitled, "Shuffle Diplomacy Tour".
Live sounds from none other than Donald Fagen, Walter Becker, a host of other great musicians making up the band, plus 3 fabulous back up singers, referred to as the "Embassy Brats", which tied in rather well with Steely Dan's "diplomatic" musical mission. I had a mission myself in attending this particular event.
Not only did I go for the pure musical and artistic inspiration, which always gives me fuel for new paintings, but also, to offer Donald a painting of my own, a tribute and a thank you for all that has been offered to me thru' his music. I mean, one should give back to the source!
Donald Fagen's keyboard. The Canadian flag sitting there was a nice touch. That said, and having seen them play 6 times now, I had to wonder if the flag was more for Walter's benefit, just so he'd know where they were. ; ) 
So, here's the painting I took to give to Donald. I patiently waited for the end of the show, mostly because I didn't want to get my thrown out on my arse, then asked a really nice roadie if he'd make sure the painting would get to the source! He said he would, and that it was a very cool thing to do. I was more than satisfied with that response, and even my husband, very uncharacteristically, was very optimistic that the offering would find it's way to Donald.
Here's Walter, looking very comfortable doing what he does best. I must say, that having front row seats, I could see both Donald and Walter's facial expressions very clearly. As I watched them interact, or as Donald spoke, or as Walter spoke, it was plain to see that after all the years they've been together in their musical partnership, they have great respect and affection for one another. 
Here's Donald, doing what he does best. The consumate musician, and even tho' I'm not likely to ever know him, in my opinion, he's the coolest cat aroundI did have my purse searched as we handed in our ticket upon entry. Obviously, my camera was there, and the fellow at the gate told me that "Navy Seals would drop from the sky, should I take any photos." I laughed and said I'd like to see that, but did decide once again, that taking photos wouldn't be worth it if I were to get thrown out, and so decided the camera would stay in my purse, however, nearing the end of the set, with everyone around me flashing away with cell phone cameras, etc., I summed up some courage and snapped a few pics. Lovely memories to look back on.
So, Donald, if you ever read this post, and I know you've been kind enough to visit in the past, I just want to say thanks. I'm happily married, don't want to bear your children, know your favourite colour, or hound you for an autograph, (tho' I wouldn't turn up my nose at one, either!).
I just hope you got the painting, that you'll enjoy it, and that you'll come back to Toronto soon.
KS
