 When I learned earlier this year that the board of directors of the SGMA wanted me to paint Glen Payne and George Younce, I knew that it would be a challenge. But, they assured me that even though Glen had died a few months before, his life had been well documented. They were right. Photos and videos began to pour into my studio from around the country. At first I didn't look at any of it, but just placed it all together in one place. Then, I traveled to Stow, Ohio to meet and spend time with George.
There in his back yard, I drew while he talked and my photographer recorded it all on film.
With all the research gathered, my wife, Linda, and I headed to my remote studio on the edge of the Ohio River in north eastern Kentucky. There I immediately immersed myself in the lives of these two men. While I poured over the photos, I listened to their music. During breakfast, lunch, and dinner, I watched them on video. The painting began to appear out of the whiteness as I worked at the drawing table. Their voices, rich and clear, honest and direct, spoke to me at every moment.
 
|
