Bob Waldmire’s last art show November 1, 2009

I received a forwarded e-mail Sunday afternoon titled “Bob Waldmire’s Last Art Show.” I made a cursory glance at the text on my iTouch and was unable to see the artwork that was attached.

I thought: “The title of that show’s a bit presumptuous. I know Bob’s been diagnosed with terminal cancer, but recoveries from serious illness have happened before.”

Looking over the e-mail’s attached flier on my PC startled, saddened and amused me, almost simultaneously.

First, Bob drew and designed the flier himself (click the thumbnail to see it in more detail). There’s no doubt about it. Who else would you know who would draw so intricately in that Robert Crumb-influenced style?

Second, the “Last Art Show” description and accompanying drawings show that Waldmire has come to terms with the grim prognosis of his illness with his usual calm, gentle humor and laid-back hippie demeanor. Almost no one else I know would approach such a life-altering event in that way.

Waldmire’s art show will be at the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Ill., from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 22. For sale will be his T-shirts, mounted color prints, notecards, postcards and maps. A rare selection of Waldmire’s original art also will be on display. If Waldmire’s feeling up to it, he’ll probably be drawing there as well.

In typical Waldmire fashion, the flier tells well-wishers to “come as you are; leave different.”

(Hat tip: Kathy Miller)