I first met Claudette Haba in 1976 following an art exhibit in which we both had work. We immediately developed a friendship, which spanned over two decades. Together, we went whale watching, we attended concerts, ballets and art exhibits, played guitar together, weathered many relationships with other people and most importantly, we journeyed through our development as artists for an incredible ride which was always one of discovery. She always encouraged me when I had low periods in my life as well as my art and I did my best to reciprocate, not just out of appreciation, but out of respect for not only a fine artist, but at the core of it all, an extremely sensitive and interesting individual. Claudette was truly a unique creation of God.

Sadly, and with profound sorrow, our journey through life as friends and colleagues ended on Sunday, the fifth of December, when Claudette passed away suddenly. I spoke to her just last week and discussed our Millennium Project, which she had just finished. Although I will not be able to journey with her through the rest of my life, I know she will always be a part of me for the rest of my time here. Something of her will always be in my work, because she was a a part of my art for such a long time.

Her obituary read, Miss Haba is survived by her mother, two brothers and a sister. This is not entirely true. She is also survived by so many friends that will always carry with them the memory of this person, who herself was a masterpiece. She is also survived by her artwork. We discussed many times the importance of our art. As we agreed, the art is our reason for being alive. We believed that. I will miss that aspect for I know it will be impossible to replace someone who was so tuned in to my philosophy. As I go it alone from here, my wife Jaclyn and children Schuyler and Rianna share this loss with Claudette's family, friends, co-workers, and the community. Good-bye for now, my dear friend.

Stephen