I was born on the 24th April 1950. This was the day of my arrival in The Eternal City. I was met at the railway station by Valerie, Helen and Ann who each gave me a guide book. In return I autographed their eyes so that they would never forget me.
I painted the Tiburtina Railway Station on your wide back beginning at the base of your spine and finishing near your scapulae which remained untouched as I had no plans for them.
We drank at the Blue Harpoon Bar. I traced the route of the Via del Corso on your arm and sketched the Piazza del Popolo on your breast
I painted a likeness of Beatrix Cenci on your cheek so that she so that she might cross the bridge once more
On the nape of your neck, I painted a miniature in slow motion. I revisited it often. It is now covered by your raven hair
As we walked along Via Sacre an English rogue held your hand and hid my White Madonna
In the Room of the Muses I asked you to join hands so that I may complete my triptych
As we passed The Baths of Caracalla you asked whether you could bathe. You found them dry.
I directed you to the Meta Sudante where gladiators removed all my works and left you clean.
I captured this event on my canvas