Shirley's art was first exhibited at the Fresh Air Gallery in Columbus, Ohio, in 2004.  The art was unsigned and presumably done by her alternates before, and during, her therapy with Dr. Wilbur. The art is startling in that certain themes and images repeat themselves across all of the personalities.   My husband saw the notice for the art show in our local paper and asked me if I'd like to go. As I walked through that exhibit, I felt as if Shirley were walking beside me.

   I had the chance to revisit  Shirley's art the first week of January, 2008. It was again at the Fresh A.I.R. Gallery  and I visited one cool, cloudy morning. There are thirty paintings in the collection and all but two are signed in ball point pen in cursive, "S. Mason" . The majority of the works are in watercolor on paper. Shirley's presence again surrounded me as I viewed her work and talked with the  staff there. I was honored that they invited me to speak at a reception honoring Shirley and her art the following week. At that reception on January 9th, I met another artist who is currently dealing with DID. To hear her speak of her struggle is to face the reality of living with Dissociative Identity Disorder. It was a privilege to meet and speak with Sheree Green, and I will keep her and all those who are dealing with DID in my prayers.     

"Footbridge in Georgia"

                                                        ...Shirley's Present to me

Shirley wanted me to have one of her paintings. She gave me several choices and this is the one I picked because of its peaceful colors and tone. It is called Footbridge in Georgia and I admire it daily in my living room.  It brightens my day when I look at it and serves as a reminder of the friend and mentor who inspired me when I felt lost; raised me up when I was down. Shirley helped me to realize that creativity lies within the heart and soul of each of us.  I was honored to be her friend and hope that in some small way, I made her life better also.  

        "With loving best wishes to Nancy and Bob"

( information on the back of painting )

    Mary's Watercolor    

 Mary was one of the sixteen alternates.

This is a print of one of Mary's pieces of art.

 It is owned by D. Hoffman of Philadelphia.  

Shirley's Signature, Front

Other Information, Back

    The Story Behind Blue Island

                                                             By Mark and Sally...

Here is a brief history of how we acquired the painting. Right about this time last year, maybe even May of 2009. My husband had gone for a bike ride before work. He came home and told me about this beautiful painting that was blue. My favorite color. Our dog's name is Bleux. He didn't have the time to go back and get it. I sat at home for a few ours then walked up the street to the yard sale. It wasn't an estate sale.

Ya know just a normal yard sale. The painting was still there! I could it half way down the street. Just stunning. I fell in love with and bought it for my husband. I placed it in front of the fireplace so he would see it when he walked in. I paid less than $5 for it. Please rest assured that this painting will not be sold. It has been on my living room wall ever since that day. And where ever I go it will always hang in my living room. The painting was extra special because of knowing just the little inaccurate info we had. Now it is so much more special knowing what I know. I am so blessed to share the love of her artwork. 

Sybil's Friend

The Hidden Paintings

Shirley

Shirley's Letters

Excerpt from my Book

Nancy's World

Multiple Expressions

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