It seems the mystery woman has been identified as Deborah Gardner of Spokane (Thank you reader, G.B.). Not only is she a lovely young woman, but from the brief research I've done (i.e. reading an email sent by a researching friend), she also has an encouraging story of adoption into a loving and supporting family.
Now on to the other mystery: the identity of the artist. This was kept under wraps not due to lack of information, but from lack of permission to reveal. But he has kindly granted me permission.
He is Duncan Sawyer of New Zealand, formally educated in physics and self-taught artist.
Here is another taste of his work:
Sophia Hummel plays the violin |
And…
I know that girl!
Mr. Sawyer paints on commission and you can find him on Facebook by name.
OneArmGirl