I started doing art when I came to county jail. Facing a lot of time in prison I knew I would be away for a while. I went to church and became a Christian when I devoted my life to Jesus in January 2010. I started drawing with graphite first. Another prisoner did portraits of family from photographs. I was astounded by his talents and he showed me some tips. I continued to draw portraits from a more technical style. Using my background in science I meticulously measured and plotted the images until they were just right.
After getting my 11-22 year sentence I came to state prison in PA. I continued to draw. Mostly portraits of family for gifts. I began to change from a technical style to a more artistic style as I gained an artists’ eye for my work and God’s creation. I continually looked up at clouds, I noticed colors and shapes in natural things like plants and rocks, and I day dreamed of interesting compositions.
I began to paint about seven years ago. It was a big change from pencil drawings. It took a lot of time, practice and determination to be able to create on canvas what I wanted to show to others. Now I continue to practice and try to create one painting a week. I am flabbergasted that my art is actually being admired. It is only by Jesus and His power that I am able to do this and I am so thankful to Him! I thank you at Crossroads for being faithful servants and making this possible.
Your brother in Christ,
Jeremy
