At first glance it seems like a picture that we are all too familiar to see in any of our own homes. Indeed it is a Zoom meeting, with lots of small boxed laid across the screen. Each one is a small portal into someone’s life, their office, living room, study, backyard, or spare bedroom.  What was unique about this particular zoom call was I had the humble honour to be amount some outstanding well regarded heraldic artist, and share in conversation about their craftsmanship. What keeps them motivated, the challenges they face in a digital age to render the art of a bygone age.  The passion which each of them has for either own medium as well as the love and respect they have for each other is remarkable.  For me personally it was a chance to get together with friends, and new acquaintances.  Many of these artists, I have known for years and have illuminated my own arms. Some of them we have spoken by text or email only and this were the first time we were able to see each other live.   To be in their presence, and hear about their love for heraldic art was uplifting.

Even just a few short years ago, I would not have dreamt that I would have an opponent to sit in my library and converse with someone from Finland, Spain, Latvia, Australia, Untied States, and the United Kingdom and cross Canada all at the same time.  There are many things which can divide us but our love and passion for heraldry brings us all together on a level playing field.   Tanya Crossingham, Edgar Sims and Brain Abshire have all done remarkable heraldic art for me personally over the years, and I am incepted for to them for their skill.  I have come to call each of them friends, and we always have wonderful conversations.  I do look forward to the next time we can chat again, and see what great projects they are working on.