Picture-Perfect

Thank you to writer Matthew Kastel for the amazing Connections, “The Portrait” (March 10). He is not the only one who couldn’t take their eyes off of that painting. Even as I compose this letter, I still find myself being drawn back to the portrait. I believe his dad got the face just right. As I look at the painting, I see a young boy and it makes me think of all of the life he has ahead of him.

Dolores Salerno Wakefield

The author writes much like a talented artist paints. His words run smoothly across the page so thoughtfully.

The love that he had and continues to have for his father shines through.

Kathy Burokas Marshfield

Loved what Kastel said: “That’s what art is — man’s passion laid out on canvas for the entire world to see.”

Jeanne Gugino Tonawanda, New York

The joy, kindness, and love shows in the picture of the father. It seems to capture him — his warmth. The portrait of the writer — incredible. In it, I saw his father. I am 80 and have lost many wonderful people — like the father, who could follow his passion but never let it overshadow his love of life and the world.

Jacquie Kay Cambridge

Beautiful and touching tribute to a talented artist and father.

Mark Vatousiou Feeding Hills

After relocating to this area, internationally known artist Roger Kastel joined the Wellesley Society of Artists and, over the years, participated in many of our shows. The words that come to mind to describe Roger are generous, kind, humble, and enormously talented. The portrait of young Matthew is evocative, Wyethesque, but very much Roger whose personal paintings were soulful, rich, and beautifully rendered. Many thanks to Matthew for sharing this deeply personal and heartwarming story and image. Roger’s humanity was indeed his masterpiece.

Nancy Treves President, Wellesley Society of Artists