I love sharing stories of people that make a difference in our lives. This issue of The Cottage Journal’s Holiday Home features Bob Timberlake. Did you know he was the mastermind behind the Keep America Beautiful commercials that feature the Native American in the canoe with the tear in his eye? I was moved by this commercial years ago. He made everyone aware of our individual responsibility for the beauty of our country.
Several years later I had the privilege of meeting him. We were publishing counted cross stitch patterns and thought it would be a great idea to convert his paintings into cross stitch charts. Barbara Cockerham and I met him at his favorite barbecue restaurant and had some North Carolina barbecue—what a treat. This talented man, who captures life at its best in his paintings, is loved by everyone. He draws people to himself like a magnet. I loved watching people talk with him about their favorite painting. He always took time to visit with everyone who came by our table.
Then we had the joy of going to his studio and seeing his vast collection of American antiques. He has a collection of collections! I was totally taken with his quilt collection and his drums. Many were from the Civil War era, and he has them displayed throughout his studio. I realized that the things we love to collect should be displayed and enjoyed daily. His studio is a wonderland of antiques.
Today Bob Timberlake is not only known for his fabulous paintings, his wonderful line of furniture is found in many homes across America. Everything about Bob Timberlake makes you appreciate home, heritage and the beautiful country we live in today. What a joy to know this wonderful man who makes us all proud of our heritage.
Which of Bob’s paintings do you like the most?
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