Much of my work intends to capture the feel of the effects of time and weather -- the stained and varnished rocks of the Grand Canyon, corroded metal, weathered and peeling paint, eroded hillsides, desert streambeds, 2000 year old Roman walls -- the Japanese call the aesthetic "Wabi-sabi".

Many of the images are inspired by traditional motifs of Tibetan and Zen Buddhism, as well as Islamic calligraphy; by natural geologic and botanical forms; and by the canvas itself in the process of developing.  Capturing the effect is aided by the process used to create the work. 

I often paint outdoors with the canvas fully exposed to the weather.  The weather conditions during the days it takes to create the painting strongly impact the effect.  The paintings done during the hot Sacramento summers differ greatly from those done during the foggy and rainy days of February.   The primary materials are water-based latex paint, in various degrees of aging and settling, American River sand, as well as organic materials from the area.

Each of my paintings are one of a kind and take weeks to develop the characteristic layers and textures. Some are spontanteous compositions, while many others are commissions based upon a client's home and surroundings. Commissions are welcomed!

"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.