Anne Nordhaus-Bike

Red Coat Remembered (2018)
found nails, hanging wire, and screw eyes
7.25 x 7.25 x 5.25 in.

Thrift store chic, college days. Soft wool, matching lining, sleeves flared wide at wrists. Graceful lines, like an artist’s smock, reaching down to my ankles. I knew She was for me, making me feel like the artist I knew I truly was. Later I saw, through others’ eyes: moth holes in the hem, not enough buttons, not warm enough for Chicago winters. Wind whistled up those gorgeous sleeves, yet I loved Her still. First job after college, so cold, buying a new coat. I gave Her away, more than 30 years ago. I still think of Her…and miss Her.

© Anne Nordhaus-Bike