[Rob Sullivan]

Okay, the re-opening of the Forum has nothing to do with my birthday, even though the dates have coincided... But, it reminds me - and should remind us all - that the very existence of this Forum is a gift to us as artists. It is a gift to all who uphold true craft and skill in the arts, whatever your aesthetic may be. Let us not take it for granted.

I have learned a great deal here. And I am not just referring to technical things, nor insightful forays into art history with regard to the portrait. Those things are here for all to see, and are thankfully archived like a wonderful encyclopedia of portraiture and painting. What I hadn't counted on learning about was pride, ego and disaffection. This is an arguable point, but recent disagreements have had little to do with learning and teaching, therefore - nothing could be gained by them, save the forming of factions and cliques.

In this day and age where kindness and comportment are no longer rewarded (as hostility has become sport and prime-time entertainment), it still does not give us the "right" to conduct ourselves according to vox populi. If we are to truly uphold the ideals of craft and skill in the arts, then we are no less obliged to put forth these things in a manner befitting their importance. By that, I mean professionally, if not humbly; with the intent to teach, and not lord it over others with less skill or knowledge.

My thanks to Cynthia and the Moderators for their time and efforts. Again, I speak for many in my sincere appreciation of your gifts.