I have especially enjoyed drawing performing artists. And, I greatly enjoy listening to music of many kinds. The very most fun for me is listening to the work of the musician I am drawing. What a symbiotic experience! They play, I draw. I honor the following musicians with a combination of my drawing and a short bio of their expertise.

Barbara Haffner

Barbara Haffner is a professional cellist whom I met in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, where she was playing in one of the local summer concert series. While creating photo references for Barbara's commission, she lovingly played her cello and I took about a 150 photos. 

We talked about her early days as an musician, starting when she was only five years old. In the drawing, I included a depiction of her as a child learning to play foreshadowing her current, very professional countenance. It was truly a joy to meet, photograph, talk with, and draw this lovely woman whose music is equally lovely.

Darren Skanson

I first heard Darren playing at an art festival. His soothing music adds to the ambiance at many Colorado summer art shows for visitors and artists alike.  Darren's light classical guitar music has a timeless classical sound with familiar melodies and fresh new compositions.

With 25 years of study and performance, Darren Curtis Skanson is a force that is rising. People of all ages love the timeless classic sound of his guitar. As well, he is an all around wonderful person, dad, and survivor in the challenging world of performing arts. I enjoy listening to Darren play over and over. Check him out at www.skanson.com

Gregg Hansen

Gregg always seems to have a smile on his face which reflects his smooth, mellow, musical guitar style.   A lifelong professional musician, Gregg has engaged in many international styles of guitar and percussion as a performer across the country. 

He often plays with a celtic group called Peace and Love and Jigs and Reels. If you like Irish music, you'll be smiling and clapping when you hear this group. Plus, he is a great drummer who taught me about the concept of entrainment. Look for him wearing the same cap as in the drawing I made of Gregg, a great guy and a very talented musician. Here's one link to his work www.pljr.com. 

Zach Nichols

One of the wonderful things about Zach is just how much his family loves him and supports his musical talent. I was floored when I found out this young guy has already played at Red Rocks here in the Denver foothills. WOW! That's usually a venue for the older and nationally established performers. So, that's my way of saying, this guy's music is already on a big time roll.  

His music has been described as having a mellow acoustical feel to it including an incredible voice. He's such a handsome guy, too.  I don't get to draw the young and talented very often! Give Zack a listen at http://zacknichols.com.

Coming next "Dog Commissions - Part 4 or 4"

You don't have to be a musician to request your own commission! Please visit
Commissions by J B Sullivan to see other examples and download a brochure about how to order a commission.  Or, just contact me directly with any questions.