During 37 days in April and May 2015 we flew almost 24,000 miles and visited 17 countries. Our mission was to find the great art being produced throughout the world and to meet the artists creating it. We complemented that objective with an ample consumption of delicious food, drink and companionship...and we laughed and laughed and laughed.

Our goal of focusing on the most accomplished artists in each country wouldn’t have been possible without the gracious assistance of guides and gallery directors who showed us art and arranged for us to visit artists’ studios.

We were reminded, as we have been so often during years of travel, that artists and those who surround them are much alike regardless of their countries. They care about their families and friends. They want harmony, fulfillment and stimulating, safe environments. They want their lives to contribute something of value. They welcome strangers of like mind—those who love art and creativity—into their lives and their hearts.

Before the trip, we knew fewer than a half-dozen of the artists whose works we saw; yet we found much of it resonated with us and we forged lasting relationships.

We returned home gratified and optimistic about creativity in today’s world and the power of art to reflect history and the human spirit. We’re immeasurably grateful for our enduring friendship, made even stronger by this life-changing opportunity.

Karen and Robert Duncan │ Kathryn and Marc LeBaron