Johnny Cash

 

Having grown up dirt-poor in Dyess, Arkansas, he would fill his songs with empathy for the downtrodden, the sick, and the disenfranchised. In fact, he wore black in recognition of all those who struggle in our society. This drawing was inspired by a great book, Citizen Cash (by Michael Stewart Foley), about the complicated politics of this country legend. 

Signed prints of this portrait are availale here, in my Etsy shop.

  

Willie Nelson

 

For some strange reason, whenever I think of Texas, Wille Nelson comes to mind. No doubt, he has legendary status as a musician, activist and weed proponent. Given these credentials, it makes sense that Texas is in a Willie Nelson state of mind.

 Prints of this piece are available here (in my Etsy shop)!

10% of proceeds from each print will be donated to Farm Aid, a charity which he founded to help farm families in need. 

 

Sam Cooke

  

Out of the Mississippi Delta, Sam Cooke emerged as the the King of Soul.

 

Bob Marley

In this time of social isolation, music has the power to connect us to the collective human spirit. It’s been helpful for me to listen to this artist, who’s all the way from Trenchtown, Jamaica. I you're all taking good care of yourselves!

Muhammad Ali

At a recent artist reception, a lovely woman aproached me and expressed how much she liked a portrait I’d drawn of Muhammad Ali. Unfortunately, it had already sold, so she commissioned me to draw this new one. I must say, it’s always daunting to draw a legend. The original drawing, a tiny piece, is below.

Kurt Cobain

We lost Kurt Cobain on this day, 25 years ago, but his musical legacy will always be in bloom. Local friends, this drawing is part of a group exhibit - The Grand Floral Show - at The Farm Salon, Greig Farm, Red Hook, NY, April 6-28th. The gallery is open Fri-Sun 10-3 pm.

You can order your signed print of this portrait here!

Jerry Garcia

As a band, the Grateful Dead seemed to tap their inspiration from the deepest of American wellsprings. With music that was earthy and organic, they gained a following who rewarded this authenticity with complete loyalty. As a singer and (legendary) guitar player, Jerry Garcia channelled their vision to perfection. He will always be the face of the incredible community.

Signed prints of this piece are available here.