This issue’s artist is Jeff Walker. Jeff is 78, from Fort Shaw and is a wonderful painter. He creates oil paintings, etchings, and watercolors, and has since he was 25 years old. He uses zinc plates for his etchings, painted with a ground impermeable layer of a material that Jeff scratches the image into, putting the work in and out of the acid to etch the lines into the plate. After lots of time-consuming work, the final piece is beautiful. All the intricate details of each piece make each one a unique, original masterpiece.
His wife Julie builds frames for many of Jeff’s pieces, and several other artists. Although some of the smaller frames are purchased, you will find his larger works framed by her. Julie has built frames full time since about 1995, using basswood and gold leaf, and several layers of waxing, sealing, and antiquing. Their art has been displayed and sold at Latigo & Lace for over 20 years now. Come see the artwork of these wonderful people and many more at Latigo & Lace at 122 Main Street in Augusta and while you are there, don’t forget to get some of the best coffee in town.