Surprise and delight for former owners of Cedar Rapids, Iowa home

While browsing the internet the other day, Kathryn Hoover of New Mexico, was surprised to see an image of a watercolor portrait of a home she and her family had formerly owned in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. The original 16″ x 20″ watercolor portrait was one that I created in 2013 for the Smith family, the current owners. Kathryn let me know her family had lived there from 1971 – 1980, and how happy she was to see the home again —  it brought back many fond memories of a place she and her family loved  and remains one of her favorite residences even to this day!

Her husband,  John Hoover, provided some very interesting information on the property. The builder was Bruce McKay of McKay Construction Company, and designed by Ken McKay, his brother, who was a prominent architect in Cedar Rapids and close friend of the family. In addition, although not documented, the word was that Grant Wood, renowned American regional artist, worked on the house during it’s construction —  earmarks are arched doorways and some windows. Grant Wood is best known for his 1930 painting, “American Gothic”, and I found it interesting that he may have been part of the home’s history! I appreciated that the family took the time to let me know the background of this beautiful stone residence, and  how happy they were to see my watercolor portrait online. Kathryn’s sister Deborah, inquired about obtaining a color print for a keepsake, and I was happy to let her know that it could be promptly made and shipped to her — Velham Printing, a local printing company here in St. Louis, will be creating the fine art reproduction archival quality print, and I know the family will be so pleased. It’s very gratifying to know that my watercolor portrait brought joy and good memories to not just one, but two families!