"My work is a blend of urbane sensibilities and rural upbringing, inspired by travels and the ramblings of a hyper-active mind. I explore new techniques and materials which compliment my love of texture and the natural world of my heritage.”
Darrell Lewis Ishmael grew up in small town Kentucky surrounded by the rural landscape and a family of creative artisans- painters, quilt makers and textile artists. This background was the basis for the artist’s current passion for earth colors, the sienna of clay, golden tobacco, limestone grays, sandstone creams and textures associated with nature. Later influences from California and Ireland are also reflected in his work.
Artistic creations utilize natural materials such as Kentucky River sand, Appalachian coal, and limestone bits, sculpted together by artist molding paste. Rich colors and lustrous depth is achieved by multi-layered acrylic glazes filtered through the fissures of the textured surface.
Darrell Lewis Ishmael graduated from the University of Kentucky and studied at The University of Hawaii and Kentucky State University. Largely self-taught as an artist, he participates in frequent workshops and studio sessions with fellow artists and explores the creative process in a variety of mediums including metal work and clay sculpture. He has exhibited in numerous shows, both solo and group, and has work in private and commercial collections nationwide.
Darrell Lewis Ishmael grew up in small town Kentucky surrounded by the rural landscape and a family of creative artisans- painters, quilt makers and textile artists. This background was the basis for the artist’s current passion for earth colors, the sienna of clay, golden tobacco, limestone grays, sandstone creams and textures associated with nature. Later influences from California and Ireland are also reflected in his work.
Artistic creations utilize natural materials such as Kentucky River sand, Appalachian coal, and limestone bits, sculpted together by artist molding paste. Rich colors and lustrous depth is achieved by multi-layered acrylic glazes filtered through the fissures of the textured surface.
Darrell Lewis Ishmael graduated from the University of Kentucky and studied at The University of Hawaii and Kentucky State University. Largely self-taught as an artist, he participates in frequent workshops and studio sessions with fellow artists and explores the creative process in a variety of mediums including metal work and clay sculpture. He has exhibited in numerous shows, both solo and group, and has work in private and commercial collections nationwide.