That Smile Portrait of James Walke III by Ann Price Hartzell

From James’ sister Jadaih Lee: To know James was to love James. James had a personality that stood out anywhere. He always had a big beautiful smile to match his beautiful personality. James was very sensitive and caring. He always wanted to make everybody around him laugh. As much as he worked my nerves, I could never stay mad at him for long. James and I shared so many memories together. We laughed together. We cried together. We shared secrets with each other. We just loved being around each other. If James loved you, you would definitely know it. He wouldn't let you leave without telling you he loved you and he meant it. He was such a lovable, genuine person. I would always call him a big baby because that’s exactly what he was. The thing I miss the most about James would have to be his smile and hugs. He gave the best hugs. I'm so incomplete without him. I never knew what people meant when they said they had a broken heart, until the day I lost him. Now I know exactly how they feel. James' body left this earth but his spirit will forever remain in our hearts..

From the artist Ann Price Hartzell: The first thing I saw when I saw photos of James was “That Smile!” Just seeing photographs of James’s wonderfully bright and generous smile made my mood brighter. I had to paint “That Smile”. The goal to focus on James’s life was at times difficult. I found it hard to escape the reason we paint these portraits. For families of victims whose murders are unsolved, life becomes a waiting game. I found myself talking to James while I painted his portrait; really not at all that unusual, except he couldn’t answer me in words. I do believe he may have guided my hand. When James’s loved ones look at his portrait I hope they can feel the love of his smile.

From the curator: What Ann has not mentioned is the thoughtful way she incorporated so many names of James’ family members on the frame, surrounding his smiling face with love. She also included many hearts in the painting, some hidden in the impasto of the paint and some more visible as in the highlights on his knuckles.

That Smile Portrait of James Walke III by Ann Price Hartzell black and white acrylic on canvas 22” x 28” 2018