In 1997 I created my first, limited edition print of the Edmund Fitzgerald. Working as a custom picture framer, in a city near Lake Huron, I've had numerous photos and art prints of the Edmund Fitzgerald brought in for framing. The common theme in all of the prints is the depiction of the ship in distress, during the storm. I felt that the Edmund Fitzgerald deserved to be remembered as she was during her life time, the "Queen of the Great Lakes". With a degree in Fine Arts, from Wayne State University. (Detroit), and a strong background in highly detailed, photo realistic drawing, I decided to draw the Edmund Fitzgerald as I saw her in my imagination. The result was "Last Light". The inspiration for this scene are the glorious, Lake Superior sunsets. The intent was to represent the ship in a moment of peace and serenity; with the men of the crew looking west, toward the horizon, enjoying one of these splendid moments of Heavenly beauty.

 

My second, limited edition print, of the Edmund fitzgerald, "Reflections in Time", is a brighter image. I love "drama" in painting, a strong light source, and a richly hued palette. Since the darker, purple and orange tones of "Last Light" may not appeal to everyone, it seemed appropriate to release an image of the Edmund Fitzgerald on a bright, sunny day, with a clear, blue sky. The photo which I used as the basis for this drawing was graciously loanedto me by Fred Miller, President of the local club, the "Lake Huron Lore Maritime Society". Everything has been changed, with an imaginary cloud formation in the background, and a reflection of the ship, inspiring the name for this release. Copies of both limited edition prints of the Edmund Fitzgerald, are still available.