Aloha Bro. Merryweather,
Let me share a few things about myself. Let’s start with my name. My first name is LaRue but I also go by the name “Lollie.” Lollie is a nickname that was given to me by my grandma (my mother’s mom). My grandma had a hard time pronouncing my name “LaRue.” Well, one day she started calling me “Lollie” because it was easier for her in pronouncing it and felt comfortable with it. Why “Lollie” from all names, I don’t know. Well I grew up with this name Lollie ever since. My family and friends all know me by Lollie. So, you are welcome to call me “Lollie” or “LaRue” I am okay with either one.
I was born and raised on the island of Hawaii which is called Big Island in the town of Hilo. I grew up together with four of my siblings. I have one brother who is the oldest and three sisters including me which makes five of us and I am the youngest.
Throughout my schooling during my elementary years maybe in my Fifth grade, I remember my teacher preparing a table with two different set of items. One set was a shiny ceramic vase, and the other setting was two apples side by side. But I remember my teacher telling us to pick either one and to start painting. I decided to paint the vase. As we started painting I vividly remember her saying words like (don’t forget to check your perspective or lightings and where your shadow falls). These words were not of value to me at that moment. What mattered the most to me at that time was to be able to hold that paint brush, dip it into the paint and started painting. It was the best feeling ever. That was the beginning of my knowledge that art is what I wanted to do. Throughout my years when I had the opportunity to take art classes, I would do so. Now when I go home to visit my parents I still see the painting of that vase that I did long time ago mounted in my old bedroom wall.
After High school I attended BYUH. And of course with many other classes, I made sure I took my art classes. After attending couple of semesters, I got married to my best friend. Later we started our family. We have six children, one daughter and five sons. I had to stop my education and stayed home taking care of my children. Now they are all grown up with their little families. My husband and I have twenty-six grandchildren. Don’t ask how it happened but it is true. Our home can get pretty busy when it comes to holidays and birthdays.
Now I’m back again trying to finish my education. It’s been a long road
for me. I worked hard to get where I am today. I have no regrets. I
am so grateful for all these experiences and knowing great professors
with great knowledge in the field of Art. I’m looking forward in
working with you, Bro. Merrill and Bro. Truscott.
Fruits and Vegetables
