Sweetheart

Portrait tribute to my lovely wife who takes great care of me. I thought that I would try something a bit different with my painting. A more loose, colorful impasto style approach. Using thick paint and palette knife technique. Will try more of this style. We all should have a sweetheart. I know I’m blessed to have such a lady in my life. “ Let me call you sweetheart I’m in love with you…..” Some of you are not to old to remember this tune Ha!!! 

My Sis

Tribute to my dear friend Anita Lee, whom I’ve come to love and cherish as my 'Sis.' We met in Seattle, WA at a bibGrades 8 thru 12; ESL @ YFC Hodygos; Grade 5; Aurora Middle School ESL/VPle study and became more like family than friends. She is a incredible lady who loves God and taught Violence Prevention @ Okahandja Secondary School, Okahandja, Namibia, Africa.

Diva

Using a very limited color palette I created this portrait based on the mood of the model. I was going to title this painting ‘Why So Serious...’ but then again. I thought that many may think I’m talking about the ‘Joker!’ Hmmmm.... then again.... Actually, Hollie Elizabeth is the daughter of Sherie Gaithers my wife’s cousin. As you can see, she has a very stunning look. I’ve watched her grow up over the years and seeing her blossom into a beautiful and sweet young lady is truly amazing. 

Master Carver

Artist Timothy Washington, a notable contemporary of African-American artist . He and I both attended and graduated from Chouinard Art Institute during the 60's where we became good friends. Washington's body of work includes a powerful series of graphic engravings on aluminum, monumental sculptures and folk art assemblages. With a firm foundation in figurative art, Washington's work covers a trajectory of calculated realism to assembled abstraction, which parallels the social history of L.A. from Washington's own perspective. His rich work ultimately serves as a metaphor to bring together and repair what is broken.

Kathy

A tribute to 'my personal nurse' who has taken 
care of me as l go through chemotherapy. Kathy
Rooney is attentive, caring and diligent as she her 
passion. When l first arrived at the clinic l was 
amazed at how she and the other nurses were taking 
care of so many patients with such professional care. 
I know l'm getting the best care and thankful that God 
has put me with the best of the best.

Lebron

November 9,1956 - March 6, 2013 - Tribute to my dear
good friend  Lebron Boyd. I was the last person who 
spoke with him prior to his passing, which was sudden 
and unexpected. He was a man of God, a man of integrity, 
great dignity and great passion for photography which, 
he was so gifted at. He was able to capture heart and soul 
of his subjects through the lens of a camera. He was great 
husband and father to his wife Sharon Grier. I miss him 
allot but, know he is with the Lord.

Nadine

I’ve been blessed have a few great friends in my life.
That friend who is always there for you. In times of 
frustrations, counsel and support. Helping you through 
the thick and thin’s of life. That credit goes to Nadine Nakanishi. Early in my career, as art director for 
KHJ9 network, she took a chance hiring me as a freelance artist. It was the beginning of a long time-die 
hard-good friendship ever since. We attended the same high school and were both members of Creative Source Art Studios in Hollywood, CA. This portrait is an aatempt to 
capture her infectious childhood smile she seems to easily 
wear so well.

Victor

Tribute to Victor Prado. A man I’ve come to respect
and admire greatly. His nativeNheritage can be seen 
clearly in his profile portrait. His passion for automobiles 
and their repair can be seen in the work he loves so much. 
A man who takes great pride in his work. Always honest 
with his clients never taking advantage but, instead putting 
the clients needs first. Something rarely found in most 
businesses today. It took some convincing Victor to allow 
me paint his portrait. Something I hope to be able to do 

more of.

The Percussionist

My younger brother Fred Lewis. A sharp dresser and as you 
can see in this painting, which also reflects the time period of 
the late seventies or mid eighties. Growing up I remember his
incredible musical talents even as a child. Watching him create 
‘soulful rhythms’ beating on coffee tin cans even before he was 
able to purchase his first set of bongos. It was evident he would 
make his mark in the music field as a percussionist with Lakeside 
creating hits like ‘All the Way Live, ‘Pull My String’ to name a few.

OJD

Using a warm palette to create ‘Oracle Jane Doe’ as she’s
known to many in the musical circuit. Blessed with the gift of song. She’s beautiful, strong, multi-talented and my niece Kawanna Lewis. First born and the daughter of my brother Fred Lewis, she’s a chip off the old block, both sharing their love and passion for music. 

Bobby

The oldest of four, Bobby my great nephew is a handsome
young man who loves sports. As I watched him grow into
manhood I see greatness in him and believe that his God given
gifts and talents will be a blessing for the upcoming generation.

Mountain Man

Portrait painting of my dear friend and mentor John McFarland. When my family and I moved to the mountains, John and I became best of friends. He taught me how to camp. Introduced me to venison, snake, frog legs, gator and a host of other mountain delicacies. John was a kind hearted soul who loved God and gifted with the spirit of kindness.

Pitcher This

Daring attempt at a still life setting created in a very impressionist style. I used the palette knife predominately throughout this painting especially to the background applying various colors to simulate a very loose approach while maintaing control to the main subject matter.

Sinatra

Tribute to Frank Sinatra.  As a huge fan of ‘Ole Blue Eyes’ The Rat Pack’and all. He was such a talent and had a voice like no other. Did you know that Frank was a member of the NAACP and played a huge influence in the civil rights movement. I make it a habit when at my studio to play a few tunes to get myself in the mood to paint. Love the big band era.

Sammy

Tribute to Sammy Davis Jr. a multi-talented man who was a musician, singer, actor and dancer. He was a great inspiration for me growing up as a child. He paved the way for many black performers today. Great entertainer, his singing style was very distinct for that time. Although, he ws part of the  ‘Rat Pack,’ I've always  admired his  energetic professionalism displayed in everything he did.

Full Moon at Half Dome

Using a palette knife I was inspired to create this simple
small painting impressionist style, of one of my favorite
places to visit. I try to visit this place at least once or
twice a year. Confirmation that God is....

Suzie the Model

25 min_Sketch of Suzie the model. Drawing from life can be intimidating but, it's a must if you are to grow as an artist. Come join us every other Friday if you have the nerve.

Dean Dallin

When I moved to Clovis, CA. I had the privilege to meet and befreind Dean Dallin. He is an influential mentor I’ve come to know and respect. Dean Dallin studied with Russian Master Painter Sergei Bongart. He’s a strong advocate and long time signature member with SWA. Master artist, watercolorist, oil painter and one of my dearest friends.