A gift to New Avenues for Youth from the Michael and Judith Gibbons Trust in memory and gratitude for the life of Joyce Furman, friend, lover of creation, patron of the arts, and angel among us.

Since my first sight of the Columbia River Gorge as a young boy, long before the freeway was built, I have loved the experience of just being there. Truly this is one of God’s earthly inspirations.
Just east of the tiny community of Mosier, Oregon, sheltered a bit from the incessant Gorge winds, are a series of cherry, apple and pear orchards; colorful textural patches draped amidst the dramatic volcanic landscape of the Columbia River Gorge. Seeking permission from the owner of several connected sections, I came during April of three successive years to create a series. This painting is the largest and final painting in the series. Judy and I kept it as part of a “Trust” Collection. We have decided to release it to honor the life and friendship we shared with Joyce and continue to share with her husband, Bill Furman.