Two years ago I had played a recital the the Korea Foundation Center in Seoul, Korea.  I met a very kind and gentle artist, M. Bagher Aghamiri who had an art exhibition later in the week in the same location.  I was unable to attend his exhibit as I had to continue with my Asian tour, but we exchanged emails and he said he was going to paint a picture of me.

Two years later, last month, I got an email stating the the print was finished.  This is the picture that I found in my inbox:

Painting by Mohammad Bagher Aghamiri

I was astounded.  I was floored.  I felt so moved!  Tears welled up in my eyes. Words cannot describe what I felt inside.  This magnificent artist had captured my inner essence in the 5 minutes that we met!  Now that is talent!  What an honor! What beautiful work!  How did he know I loved peacocks?  As a flutist, I sound like a bird and very much identify with them.  He painted my portrait with birds, flowers, nature, grace and romanticism, capturing my very nature.  I thank you M. Bagher Aghamiri from the bottom of my heart.  I hope someday to see you in person again soon.  In the meantime, I send you all my love and blessings.   Thank you!  Gracias!  Merci!