My father, Aldren A. Watson, was born on May 10, 1917. He died on May 5, 2013 at the age of 96. He was a prolific and gifted artist, writer, designer, and creator. He was also my artistic mentor. When I was 8 years old I decided I was going to submit a book idea to a publisher. Dad helped me put together a typed manuscript and a dummy; suggested where to submit it; helped me package it up and mail it. The book was rejected, of course. But never once did my father try to discourage me in that attempt. He continued to be involved and interested in my work from then on. Just a few weeks ago I mailed him copies of sketches from my current book idea, and we discussed them together over the phone.
After Dad's death, I found on his desk a handwritten rough draft, dated May 1, in which he was wrestling with the opening words for a new piece of writing. Next to it lay a rough sketch---of a rotted tree stump, one of his favorite subjects---that he had made just a day or two before he died. And his last book, Waterfront New York, Images of the 1920s and '30s, will be published posthumously by David R. Godine, Publisher. Dad was the epitome of a dedicated artist who continues to create, no matter what difficulties life is presenting. As I continue with my own work, I know that I will feel him there still, at my shoulder---commenting, critiquing, and above all, encouraging. Thank you, Dad.
