Brothers in Arms

Artist: Andrew J. Woodstock

Occupation: Graphic Designer

Hometown: Plainwell, Michigan

Venue: DeVos Place Convention Center

Medium: Watercolor, pencil

What was your inspiration for the piece?

“I’m a huge lover of the Civil War,” Andrew J. Woodstock said.  He looks through hundreds of historical photographs every year, specifically for a shot that moves him personally.

How long did it take to create?

“My wife says 600 hours,” said Woodstock.

Why did he make more than one painting this year?

Woodstock wanted different scales.  Having three paintings enabled him to display a closeup, full-body shot, as well as a quote.

How big are the original photographs?

Woodstock raised his hands and made a gesture with his hands about four by five inches.  “I blow (the photographs) up four to ten times as big as they were, then I work from that.

“What sort of artistic liberty do you take?”

“A lot,” said Woodstock.  “Because they are so small, a lot of this stuff I have to make up.”

Compiled by Jonathan D. Lopez – Photo Editor