My Grandfather, Joseph Evers & Marlene Dietrich

I've always liked to paint big and I've always liked to paint celebrities. The fun part for me is trying to capture what makes them unique. What their "it" factor is that we identify with, in other words...what makes them a star or personality. Although I never met him because he died before I was born, I owe my talent I have been told, to my Grandfather, Captain Joseph E. Evers. He was an artist and musician. Many of his paintings still grace my family’s homes. During the 1940's & 50's he and a partner owned the Grant-Evers Studio here in New York City. They painted the large billboards and Broadway signs seen around Times Square by hand as well as showcards and more. (Thus the urge for me to paint large I think). Above is a picture of my Grandfather, Captain Joseph E. Evers escorting screen legend Marlene Dietrich during World War II. She was visiting the troops in Europe and since my grandfather was Captain he had the tough job of escorting her around the compound.