Originally this was a painting I produced in the fall of 2008.  Since then it has been Modified.  When I initially showed this piece in critique it was criticized for a stencil used in the figure’s thought bubble that simply stated “life.” I wanted the words to reflect the person it was a portrait of so I allowed him to spray paint it in.  After it’s critique however, I was so dissatisfied with the way it turned out that I continued working on it and painted over the stenciled letters. It did not make my friend happy, so in resolve we decide that he would tag the painting while it was set up at an art show. That show came in August 2009 at the Hydrant Café on the square here in Denton. Before the closing reception my friend came into the business while it was open and made several additions to the painting. He did not get caught. However, it did create a stir within those who had known the painting before hand. For that effect alone, it was worth it.  My friend and I are reconciled and the story and character produced in this work makes it one of my favorite pieces.