On January 27, 2025, Mary Kay Patterson Sullivan reached out to me about a watercolor painting and an architectural print image that she owns by James Yale. This began the intent behind the second year of the legacy project. On August 18, 2025, the second anniversary of James’ passing, the Nancy Drew crew became dedicated to following the clues in uncovering the lost art and stories behind the art of James Yale.

Today’s post is the painting titled, Lady Nautilus. I had never seen her before, and I wanted to know more about the story about how the painting came into her life, as well as the story about its creation. So I kept Mary on my radar to follow up. Last month before visiting her home, she told me that she loved it, but knew very little about the painting. It was gifted to her by her uncle Gordon Bradford.

When I came into James’ life, Gordon was always a welcome visitor. From art patron to massage therapist, like me, Gordon always had James back, literally, bringing his massage table over in the days James struggled with multiple sclerosis alone. His care kept James painting. In gratitude to Gordon, James gave him Lady Nautilus.

So, before I was to meet Mary and the painting, I called Gordon and asked him to write a letter about the story behind the painting and his friendship with James.

Thank you for sharing these posts every week that inspire more people to share their stories with leads that turn into more clues for us to follow.

Always my gratitude,

— Charlotte Buchanan Yale

Gordon Bradford’s Letter–Nov. 28, 2025

The Girl with a Nautilus Shell is my name for the painting. These are memories from quite a while back- pre you and James.

I had admired the painting for years before acquiring it. Seemed almost haunting. Feeling drawn to it without knowing (or with awareness) why.

Over the years James and I did discuss Fibonacci numbers and the Golden Means. I don’t remember us discussing the painting in those terms. 

My having awareness of the nautilus might have influenced my sense of mystery of the painting. The image brought ideas of universal awareness and seeking answers to the questions of the universe. I also had feelings of the girl as a youth and the opening world ahead of her with memories and feelings recalled from long ago.

I cherished time shared with James. Being with him was intellectually stimulating. Inspiring.  I have been falling in love with artists for as long as I’ve been falling in love. And yes, I loved James. He was special to share time with him… As an artist. As a philosopher. As a friend.

I remember the feeling of awe as James would add brush strokes to a painting. James was a great story teller. And he DID have stories to tell.

I have wonderful memories of times when James was too lame to be on his feet. Taken to the bed so to speak. I’d lie on the bed beside him and we’d talk. And talk. And talk.

I was taken by the cloud scape on your ceiling– so comforting. And the prisms in the west window. The bedroom was flooded with rainbows. Birdwatching out the north windows. James knew the birds well. We would often discuss specific bird visitors to the feeders. 

( I remember those days hearing you two chattering away. And your ease of adapting to the days James was unable to leave the bedroom. Gordon, you gave both of us peace. Charlotte)

Back to the painting, it might have come to me in an exchange for massages. I had a massage practice at that time. I’d bring the table out once a week or so for James to have a massage.

I first encountered James’ art at the Frameshop upstairs at Vincent Square in Downtown Rogers. That was also the time, about 1980, that I met, now wife, Sherry Stansberry and her art, that I collected…but that’s a different story (Heart)

It seems that James’ bread and butter work at that time was portraits. I can remember being in awe of his skills then. He also showed some work at the War Eagle Mill for a time.

Those are good years in my life. That said, it seems my life has been graced with good times, good people.

I have been delighted to share this time with you via memories of James. Lots of hours spent with him over the years.

You have my love and respect, Gordon