Anna Wilhelmus’ paintings are on display at Arabianranta Library 3 October – 30 November, 2024. Welcome to the exhibition ”What we don’t know ”!

Image: Anna Wilhelmus

Anna Wilhelmus: What we don’t know – paintings

I lie next to my father and look at his frail, old self. However,
his presence is strong. My childhood memory comes back
to me, how I could climb next to him in my parents’ double
bed on Sunday mornings. Even now it feels as if the roof is
disappearing from above us and we are lying under a clear
and spacious starry sky. We talk about the universe, its
wonder, space and stars. ”What could that Death be?” he
says, “Does it all just cease to exist…?”

Two years later, last spring, I am at his deathbed. The
process of death has been going on for a few days now, and
he hasn’t really reacted to his surroundings anymore. I’m
alone in the room now and I’m talking to him. “Father, it’s
me, Anna”.
To my surprise, he opens his eyes and looks at me, or he
actually looks a little like newborns do: a little past me. His
eyes show wonder, like the waves of a stone thrown into the
water. ”Thank you for everything, father,” I say, ”You are
loved. Send my greetings to mother”.