A personal reflection on growing up in Weehawken during America’s Bicentennial, where tall ships, fireworks, and childhood wonder became the beginning of an artist’s way of seeing.

Visibility isn’t the same as mastery. The Beret Syndrome explores why becoming an artist takes far more than attention or appearances.

Edny, the author’s mother, co-judging the 50th Anniversary Union City Fourth of July Art Show – 1975. by Chantell Van Erbé. Before I tell my story, I must first tell theirs. The women who came before me shaped my life long before I entered the world. Through quiet resolve, unwavering vision, and the strength to endure, they laid the foundation upon which my family would stand. At the heart of this memoir are the women of my maternal family. Their lives became part of mine lon