Norman Rockwell

 

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.

Elvis Presley

Just looking at pictures of a young Elvis Presley, it’s easy to understand why he found such meteoric success. This native of Tupelo, Mississippi exuded an aura which has yet to be duplicated. While drawing this legend, I found myself continuously mimicking his distinct southern drawl. He sadly lost his way in life, but his early contributions to rock and roll will reverberate forever. 

Signed prints of this piece are available here (in my Etsy Shop)! 

Dolly Parton

She’s larger than life, to an iconic degree. I simply couldn’t fit this portrait, in just Tennessee. Born in a one-room cabin in Appalachia, Dolly Parton would grow up to master country and bluegrass music, acting, and business. Her efforts to promote literacy, along with her support for the LBGTQ community, have shown her to be a true humanitarian.

Signed prints of this portrait are available here!

Smokey the Bear

Here's  a portrait of Smokey the Bear, drawn on a Yosemite Park. In light of all the devastating fires in California, I was compelled to draw the conscience of American Forests. He reminds us that only WE can prevent forest fires.

Prints of this piece are available here!

Nelson Mandela

Here’s a portrait of anti-apartheid revolutionary, and former president of South Africa, Nelson Mandela. He is a true profile in courage, and what a real leader looks like. 

Signed prints of this piece are available here!

Amy Winehouse

Heres a portrait of the brilliant singer/songwriter, Amy Winehouse, in which I utilized makeup brushes to draw. So many iconic musicians have tragically died at 27 years of age, including Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain, Jim Morrison and Brian Jones. Sadly, Amy joined that club in 2011. I drew this tribute on a map of her hometown, London.  Rest in peace.

Signed prints are available here!

Clint Eastwood

Here's a portrait of Clint Eastwood. This iconic actor and director made his name starring in spaghetti westerns. He's such a natural in these films, the American southwest practically part of his DNA. Prints of this piece are available here!