David Nordahl's Farewell to Michael Jackson

I recently came across David Nordahl's farewell note to Michael Jackson posted on art.com. The artist gave a very brief peek into his 20 year friendship with the musical genius stating that each time he was with Michael and his children he gained a new appreciation for Michael's talent, wit and intelligence. I must say that the rumors that surrounded Michael were upsetting. Was the self proclaimed King of Pop guilty of molesting children -- I don't think so. And reading words like these which were spoken by someone who actually knew Michael makes me doubt the allegations even more. I'm sure Michael was incredibly grateful to be surrounded by loyal friends like David Nordahl who despite being forced to deal with negative press due to their friendship remained beside him.

Over a 17 year period David accepted several requests from Michael along with many others to paint for him. Michael's imagination, regal self image and love for children called for story book images. Michael who never wanted to lose his child-like enthusiasm for life always envisioned himself surrounded by children. In one painting entitled, 'Field of Dreams' the artist painted Michael leading a group of children down the fabled yellow brick road. In another Micheal is a statues figure surrounded by little angels placing flowers in his hair. Once the scandal broke the artist was forced to defend his creations. David Nordahl did so by simply stating the truth -- the images he brought to life on canvas were nothing more than the product of Michael's imagination and there was nothing sinister about them. Looking at the paintings and considering the wealthy client who paid upwards to $150,000 per painting one can clearly see that the artist did a brilliant job on each commissioned piece of artwork. In fact, he gave the client much more than his money's worth. An accomplishment that when dealing with eccentric clients is almost impossible to achieve.

Many today aren't aware of the fact that David Nordahl was already a well established artist prior to his Michael Jackson paintings. In fact, Michael came across his artwork while visiting a famous friend's, Steven Spielberg, office. It was Apache Indians and their conflicts with the United States Military that made David famous not Michael Jackson. And although he will be remembered like so many others for his friendship with the King of Pop those of us who love American history and our children will remain forever grateful to him for bringing the 19th century western frontier to life.