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A Portrait of Farewell, Dignity, and the Weight of Time

This painting was born from my years working in a nursing home—where daily interactions became deeply personal. Over time, I grew close to the residents in his care, bearing witness not just to their routines, but to their stories, their decline, and ultimately, their departures.

From The Pines, To Strasbourg

I knew an old wise woman once. She told me to make my way back to Strasbourg, so I did. From her pine framed window, she bid farewell, “Okay now. I’ll be seeing you.” With her gaze and expression of both endearment and concern, but excitement for me. Looking on in to the day’s sun. This painting perfectly captures those feelings and experiences with my dear old friend.

That phrase, “Okay now,” became the anchor for this piece—a soft farewell, filled with farewells and grace.

To collectors, Okay Now is more than a portrait. It’s a meditation on aging and humanity. The subject’s gaze is not toward us, but outward—toward memory, or perhaps the future. She wears time in her skin, in her hands, in the quiet power of her posture. There is no fear here. Only presence.

This is a piece that rewards those who linger. It doesn’t shout—it invites. For collectors who value art that carries meaning and memory, Okay Now offers an emotional depth that lives far beyond the frame.

Painting Accolades

  • Featured and sold in the 21st Bryn Du Art Show at the Bryn Du Mansion in Granville, Ohio.
  • Featured in ActLoCLE's Featured Artist.
  • Featured in Massillon Community Arts Council's Featured Artist.
  • Featured in Voyage Ohio - Benjamin Young’s Story.
  • Reproduction featured in the Stark County Minority Business Association Opening Exhibit hosted at Kirk Schuring Center in Canton, Ohio.

Okay Now is part of the Back into The Light collection.

Acquire Artwork

While the original watercolor painting 'Okay Now' has been sold, limited edition limited reproductions are still available in various sizes. This emotionally resonant piece continues to connect with collectors, and these high-quality prints offer a meaningful way to bring its story into your own space.

Join the Collector's Circle to gain access for collector privileged pricing on select works and a 15% OFF private offer for your first purchase.

9x12in Limited Reproduction

47 LEFT OF 60

12x16in Limited Reproduction

39 LEFT OF 40

18x24in Limited Reproduction

27 LEFT OF 30

Original Watercolor Painting

Reproductions are printed on premium archival fine art paper using only the finest archival-grade inks, these works meet the strict standards of giclée printmaking—ensuring exceptional detail, color accuracy, and fade resistance. Designed to preserve the integrity of the original artwork, each reproduction is a museum-quality piece intended to be cherished for generations.

Ready to Learn More? Join Collector's Circle

If you would like to step inside the story behind this piece—discover its inspiration, explore the creative journey, and gain access to private notes and collector insights—I invite you to join my private collector’s list.

As a welcome gesture, you will receive a preferred 15% collector’s privilege on your acquisitions, along with entry into an exclusive monthly drawing to receive a complimentary limited reproduction.

About the Artist, Ben Young

Ben Young is a contemporary fine artist originally from Appalachia, Ohio. Originally a Software Engineer, he began painting in watercolor and oil less than two years ago, and his work has quickly gained attention for its emotional depth and storytelling. Each piece is a personal narrative, rooted in lived experience and expressed through a sensitive, evocative style. Each piece touches on themes of loss, love, family, and resilience, often drawing from his own life, including the tragic loss of his fiancée and journey it took to overcome those emotional burdens. His paintings resonate with collectors drawn to authenticity, vulnerability, and a fresh, emerging voice in American art.

Artist Ben Young