120×80 cm
oil on canvas
"Matthew was a joy and an inspiration to all who knew him. The godliness of his spirit inspired, influenced and blessed all who knew him.
He came into this world as a miracle and left this world as a miracle. He was born with a severe disability on September 23, 1988 in Salt Lake City. At birth, Matthew's life expectancy was estimated to be only hours, but his spirit and perseverance, combined with the power of God, worked miracles. Matthew lived ten and a half years. His family had the privilege of spending time with him on earth, learning from his courage and marveling at the joy and happiness of their little boy in the midst of all the struggles. His presence inspired all who knew him. He opened their hearts and their eyes," his parents said.
In 2000, Matthew's grave was the site of a sculpture of Matthew by his father Ernest Robinson and his cousin Susan Comish. This unique memorial depicts the young boy leaping from his wheelchair and flying to heaven, now free of his earthly burdens.
The tombstone stands in the Salt Lake City Cemetery. I was so captivated by the story and the way it was depicted that I couldn't get rid of the thought and the feeling for months. I had never seen death portrayed with such hope so I decided to paint it.