Women have always inspired my artistry, especially since my first professional career was as a fashion illustrator. At the Super Bowl, earlier this year Beyonce blew me away with her bold salute to the Black Panther Party. The second image portrays Maude Maggart, who's sister is Fiona Apple. She sings at an open mic I attend. The beauty that flows from every note she sings is awe inspiring and the length of her musical phrases in astounding. She performs a beautiful version of the standard, "Skylark" and the bird above her is a Skylark in flight.

Here are a few images, created earlier this year. I was stunned by the passing of 2 of my favorite musicians, David Bowie and Prince! Both were highly unique innovators who continually broke uncharted ground in their musical endeavors. They each wrote, played, recorded and performed their own compositions and appeared in films. Prince was also a producer and quite an accomplished dancer. These images were created to honor their tremendous contribution to the music industry. Bowie was a skinny nerd who changed his image often and set unprecedented worldwide style trends. Prince was of mixed racial heritage and stood only 5' 2." He constantly wore Cuban heeled shoes or boots and sometimes donned high heeled shoes, resembling women's shoes, which Bowie also did. They both wore makeup and their lyrics often crossed gender barriers. I hope you enjoy viewing these images and can feel the immense joy with which they were created.

A new book was just published with my artwork on the cover! Theep and Thorpe, by my friend Lillian Nader!

Here is a collage of some fun drawings done for the cast of a Valentine's Day "Vagina Monologues" production. The producer is Yetta Young. I hope they are as fun to see as they were to create and a portrait makes a fun Valentine's Day gift. Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!!

"Lucky So and So" show and artwork

Here's a sample of a synthesis of musical theatre performance, writing and graphic art skills. This show was inspired by my love for Duke Ellington's music and my friendship with Duke's sister, Ruth Ellington. Recent films like "The Artist," (Best Picture Oscar winner, 2012) and "Gatspy" highlight this dynamic period in American History. "Lucky So and So" shows how a ground-breaking musical genius from that era created music that influenced popular music for generations. The show demonstrates how Duke rose above early 20th Century racism, paving the way for many of today's music giants. When you see the show, you'll get the full scoop on how Duke became a worldwide success, creating music so timeless that it will endure forever! Read a recent review here: bit.ly/11BVNoc

Quick Portraits

These portraits were done for an Absolut Vodka Flavors promotion. They hired me 2 years in a row and the first year, they asked the artists hired nation-wide to create "caricatures" of those who participated in the promotion. The second year, they asked artists to do more realistic, flattering portraits like the ones I was drawing, due to the overwhelming response to my style. They said that my portraits were among the most popular of the artists who worked on the promotion. I am currently available to come to your party and draw your guests looking their best! For rates and availability, send an email to: adivino9@gmail.com.

Web Site

www.divineart5.com