I’m Becky, a passionate voyager, life partner, and a parent to an amazing kid. Consider me your narrator on this global voyage that transcends geographic boundaries and cultural norms. This digital platform is intended to record and reflect our family’s monumental journey, which took us from the comfort of our long-time home in Los Angeles, California, to Valencia, Spain, and our continued travels throughout Europe and the world.
In the stories reflected in our travels, and through our immersive experience of living in Spain, our blog acts as a testament to my father’s enduring influence, spirit, andv values. It has become our conduit to establish connections with a wider audience.
This journey, infused with the highest of highs, the lowest of lows, and the ordinary moments sandwiched in-between, serves as a window into our life and experiences. Through this blog, we hope to inspire others to embrace lifeβs changes and transitions, even as overwhelming as they can sometimes feel. It’s a gentle reminder that each voyage starts with small steps as well as a leap of faith into the unknown, fueled by the desire to keep a loved one’s memory with us as we learn to live our lives without their presence.
Born in 1951, my father, David Seth Raizman, was a beacon of lifelong learning as an esteemed scholar, historian, and university professor. His passions for art, design, music, sports, and travel radiated warmth, connection, and joy in our family.
A renowned art historian specializing first in medieval Spain and then design history, he passed on his enthusiasm for the Spanish language and Spain as a country to me. After a formative experience of studying abroad in Sevilla, Spain during college and traveling throughout many Spanish cities and regions over the years, I also developed a strong connection to the country for a number of reasons. Choosing to relocate to Spain with my family continues to be a living tribute to my father.
Traveling, tennis, guitar-playing, museums, family gatherings – these are the pieces that, together, create the mosaic of David’s life. A life that was vibrant, full of passion, and characterized by an insatiable curiosity for the world. These photographs, each one capturing a moment in time, are a testament to a life lived fully and a man loved dearly.
David’s work as an educator, scholar, and mentor have left an enduring impact on the academic world, and beyond. His seminal work, “History of Modern Design,” is recognized globally and has shaped design history studies in collegiate institutions. The third edition of this renowned textbook, which he was nearly finished writing at the time of his death, was ultimately published in Fall 2023 with the invaluable assistance of his publisher (Laurence King), editor (Kara Hattersley-Smith), design history colleagues and dear friends, and family.
His life and contributions have been captured eloquently in the obituaries published by The Philadelphia Inquirer and the College Art Association. These pieces not only encapsulate his professional achievements but also touch upon his personal life, qualities, passions, and the people who were close to his heart.
becky.holanewmans@gmail.com