As some of you are aware, Koopa has not painted in about a month due to illness. He stopped eating and began to spend all of his time in his heated box. I’ve taken him to his (herpetological) vet several times in the past month. He was treated for a respiratory infection as a precaution, but neither his health nor behavior has improved. Koopa received x-rays, had blood work done, and was tube-fed earlier this week. The x-rays showed nothing unusual, but today the vet called with the results of the blood tests. Koopa’s liver values are elevated, which could indicate cancer, liver failure, or a tumor. My options as his caregiver are limited, and this truly breaks my heart. As a result, I want to make it clear that Koopa will no longer be creating new artwork. He ends his career with 827 gorgeous original paintings hung in all 50 U.S. states and 9 different countries. There are only a few paintings remaining to be offered on eBay.
Our e-Kiss promotion has not ended yet due to low turnout, but I’m going to set the official end date as Wednesday, April 9. If you’d like to participate, please do so as soon as possible, as I’d like for Koopa to be able to personally select the winners while he is still "with us" and able. To clarify the whole e-Kiss thing for those who don’t understand…you buy one or more e-Kisses which are nothing but digital photos that I send to you via e-mail. For each e-Kiss purchased, you will also receive a chance to win one of 3 Koopa paintings. One of them is Koopa’s 700th painting, "Celebration #7" (pictured below) and the other 2 are mystery paintings, both very beautiful. There will not be many more chances to own Koopa’s artwork, so don’t hesitate to participate or pass this on to someone who might be interested.
Prior to these events, I redesigned our website and started a new blog. The website is still "under construction" and the blog has turned into an automatic depression infuser. Regardless of events, I plan to keep both running to showcase Koopa’s old paintings and possibly reignite my (hopeful) career as an artist. I realize that I’m lacking Koopa’s charm and cuteness, but please take the time to view my artwork and possibly consider placing a bid. Although I gave Koopa all the credit, I always considered his paintings to be collaborations between us, using my knowledge of color and composition to ensure that they would turn out beautiful. Koopa did all of the actual painting but on a different level I felt as if I was "creating" and learning a lot too. I hope that my personal artwork will speak to you in the same way that Koopa’s has.
This situation has me feeling both sad and fearful of what the future holds for me. I have put Koopa before myself for 5 years and I’m no longer sure where I belong in the world. He was and still is a wonderful inspiration to me. Through his art, Koopa has raised over $13,000 for turtle rescue, breast cancer awareness, and the rebuilding of New Orleans. He has helped me connect with some remarkable people… art collectors, turtle lovers, and regular people who first met Koopa by browsing through eBay. I’ve also made some great friends because of him, and I’m grateful to have each and every one of you in my life.
Thank you for your support through the years.
I'm an Internet-based (anxiety-ridden) abstract artist residing in Connecticut. I'm best known for my breast paintings, which I've been offering sporadically since 2001. You may also be familiar with my work with Koopa, the world's 1st professional painting turtle (now enjoying early retirement.) I'm currently spending lots of time creating photographs, beaded jewelry and poetry too! Check out some of the links on the top and sidebar, read some back posts, wander over to www.turtlekiss.com, and be sure to leave a comment if you have anything to add. Thanks for visiting!
1 Comment
04/05/2008 at 9:34 PM
Dear Kira,
I hope Koopa makes a full recovery. There is always hope that he can pull through but if he does not, then you must know you gave him the best life possible while in your care. How many people can say that truthfully? In all things, there is a beginning, a middle and an end.
I also hope you know that there are many people who care about you. Your creativity is what made an artist out of Koopa. You are an artist whether you can make a full time living out of it or not, so never doubt that. Believe in yourself and even if you find yourself making lattes at Starbucks, you are an artist and that is something very special- you are very special.
I’m sorry that you are feeling lost and as if you are falling apart emotionally. It is understandable that you feel this way with the unknowns, the burdens and the fears of losing Koopa, but you are a child of God and He gave us the ability to be strong if the occasion arises and this is your time. I wish you all the best and please contact your friends if you are feeling sad or bad. I don’t know you personally but we are “sisters” in this life and I will help if you ask, as will all your “sisters”.
Thinking good thoughts to you and Koopa! Tess