When I see what nature has created in all it’s splendor I’m constantly humbled. Whatever I may paint can only bring a shadow of what lies before my eyes. At the same time I am amazed at some of the so-called freaks of nature, as many of us are. It was this premise that was responsible for the theme of “Freak Show”. I recalled the traveling circuses that featured people and animals that were in some way extraordinary, such as the bearded lady. The Iris’ featured in this piece are known as “Bearded Iris’” my sister and mother’s name was Iris. To a large extent at least in my personal opinion my sister and mother were and are extraordinary people.