Emerging out of the Berkshires, it’s an American master. From his studio in Stockbridge, MA, Norman Rockwell captured our country’s spirit in iconic paintings. I am blessed to live within an hour’s drive of the museum named after him. As an illustrator, I could never find a better place to get inspired.
Jean-Michel Basquiat
The son of a Haitian-immigrant father, and a mother who's family hailed from Puerto Rico, this acclaimed American painter has deep roots in in the Caribbean. No doubt, that rich background boils up in his spectacular paintings.
Signed print of this portrait are available here, in my Etsy shop!
Kanye West
The gifted hiphop artist Kanye West has found Christ. This portrait was drawn on a reproduction of Bernardino Gardino’s Ascension of the Lord.
This piece is part of my exhibit which will be up at the Starr Library in Rhinebeck, NY, February 1-29th. 15% of all proceeds go towards supporting this library. If you live locally (in the Mid-Hudson Valley), please check it out!
Andy Warhol
I recently read an enlightening biography of Andy Warhol (Pop, by Tony Scherman and David Dalton). One unique aspect of his vision was that he saw little difference between art galleries and supermarkets. In other words, he saw art in even the most mundane aspects of American culture. With that in mind, I attempted drawing this little tribute to his genius.
Signed prints of this piece are available here (in my Etsy shop).
Frida Kahlo
Here's a drawing of an iconic artist known for her many magical self portraits. Frida was inspired by Mexico's rich history, culture, and natural elements, so it was an easy choice for me to depict her on this map.
Signed prints of this portrait are available in my Etsy Shop!
American Illustration Interview
It was an honor to participate in an interview with American Illustration, part of their DART series (Design Arts Daily). The interviewer, Peggy Roalf, asked very thoughtful questions about my map drawings, sketchbook images, what my habits are, and who my influences are. You can read the full interview here!
Here's a small study of singer/songwriter, Kasey Musgraves. This drawing of one of my favorite country artists was inspired by her song, Butterflies. No doubt, when I listen to her music, I get butterflies!
Signed prints of this piece are available here!
Yoko Ono
She’s a visual artist, singer/songwriter, activist, and philanthropist all in one person. She steadfastly honors the legacy and vision of her late husband, John Lennon. And when it comes to waging peace, Yoko is numero Ono. Signed Prints of this piece are available here!
Ego Schiele
Here’s a portrait of Austrian painter, Egon Schiele, drawn on a map of Vienna. I discovered this brilliant artist while studying drawing in the 1980s at Parsons School of Design. His work has inspired me ever since then. A protégé of Gustav Klimt, he was a true master of capturing the human form. Materials: Pen, dry brush, and pencil
In Bloom
I was recently looking through a book of copyright-free engravings from the 18th century, and came across a page of flowers. It got me thinking about a song, In Bloom, written by one of the voices of my generation, Kurt Cobain. More than two decades after he died, Nirvana's music is still as relevant as ever. I was compelled to draw this tribute to him.
Prints of this piece are available here.
A Busker from Saskatoon
Joni Mitchell started out as a busker from Saskatoon, and became one of the greatest songwriters of all time. Prints of this piece are available here!