I’ve always been intrigued by the story of Giotto, a 14th Century Florentine painter who I view as an exemplar of confidence.

As the story goes, the Pope was looking for an artist for St. Peters. He sent an emissary to audition candidates and when Giotto was asked for a sample to evaluate, he took a canvas, dipped his brush in red pigment, painted a perfect circle, and grinning, offered the results, announcing, “Here’s your drawing.”

The royal representative thought he was being mocked and asked for another more orthodox presentation, but Giotto reportedly responded, “This is enough. It’s more than enough.”

Upon seeing the offering, the Pope and his advisors recognized the deftness embodied in the gesture being offered and gave him the commission.

So, having paper, a flat vertical surface, a brush and some black and some white paint available, I tried to channel my best Giotto.

It’s the piece on the header of this section.

I particularly enjoy its imperfections.