“Layla”

One day, while walking along Lake Michigan, this particular scene revealed itself. I had to paint this!  I took a photo to preserve the colors and light of that moment.

As I began working on this painting, I learned that my childhood friend’s daughter, Layla, was courageously battling brain cancer. Not long after, I heard the heartbreaking news of her passing.

During one of the painting sessions, I watched her celebration of life video. Though I never had the honor of meeting Layla, I was deeply moved by her radiant joy, the love she gave and received, and the beautiful, luminous spirit that shone through her eyes.

As the painting progressed, Layla and her family remained present in my thoughts. The love and grief felt by Robbin, Laura, and their family became a quiet, invisible thread woven into my brushstrokes.

When the piece was completed in February 2025, I knew the title had to be Layla. With Robbin and Laura’s gracious blessing, I titled it in her honor. I am profoundly grateful to them for allowing me to share her light in this way.

This painting is available as a canvas or paper giclée print in various sizes, with custom sizing also available. As a tribute to her memory, a portion of all sales will be donated to the Layla Julien Foundation.