Arts for Children

 

"Child at Piano" ("Petite Fille au Piano"), 1923, Oil on canvas.
Frederick C. Frieseke, American Impressionist.

                This is a portrait of my mother, painted by her father, Frederick C. Frieseke. (You can pronounce "Frieseke" by saying "Freeze a cup" quickly, leaving off the "P.") My mother Frances spent many hours posing for her father. Usually she could play the piano, read a book, do some sewing, or listen to her mother reading to her while she posed. Still, it was hard work having to stay still for a long time while her father painted. Her face became well known in Europe and America, and she had the satisfaction of knowing that she was helping to support her family. She was a very good sport about it. She didn't get paid directly for her work, but eventually she did inherit many beautiful paintings which adorned her home and helped to support the large family she and her husband Kenton Kilmer produced.
 
                Frances and her parents lived in Normandy, France, when this painting was done. In the United States today, there are child labor laws that protect children under 15, but it is my understanding that they do not apply when children are working for their own families. The government will not intervene unless there is a clear case of abuse, or if the child's working hours interfere with schooling.
 
                Children and teens, I would love to hear what you think of this painting and the story that goes with it. I will be happy to give brief answers to specific questions and to provide you with reference resources, but please note that I won't do your homework for you! Please email your comments and questions to: customerservice at risingdove.com. Tell me whether I may have your permission to publish your response on this site. Don't give your address or phone number.
 
                I will not share your personal information, other than your name, your age, and the message you want published. I will not forward your email address to advertisers or other third parties.
 
                Parents, teachers, adult students, etc., please visit my Frieseke web site. Email me for the URL or search Google.
 
                The Frieseke reproduction on this page is from Chamber Works by Frederick C. Frieseke, copyright Hollis Taggart Galleries and the Kilmer Family Trust.
 
"The Birdcage"  by Frieseke
 
"Tea Time in Giverny" Frieseke at the  by Frieseke
 
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