Spring '99 Newsletter Page Three:

Ed and Jody Abrams Written by Illustrator Laurie Ann Sheahan Not ‘Sheeping’ Around My initial assignment was to interview Ed Abrams, the artist. Soon after the warm welcome I received from Ed and his lovely wife Jody, I realized that, in addition to Ed’s unique talents and achievements, the two shared a special bond that could not be ignored. Both artists work independently while generously sharing ideas, laughter and love. When Ed and Jody are not spending time at their ‘Historical House Lodging in Julian, they may be found at their studio and home away from home in downtown San Diego. What was once a dental practice and laboratory, this second residence has its hallways and rooms filled with the Abrams’ art. Important people immortal-ized on boards by Ed’s unique sensibilities fill his portfolio. Each portrait is dramatic and infused with a rainbow of color subtleties. As artists, we understand the challenge of mastering the likeness of hands with the integrity they must have. Ed makes it look easy. While working at Capitol Records, Ed created album covers for classical labels. Each Composer’s portrait, was rendered uniquely based upon extensive research. Portraits of Beethoven, Gustav Mahler, Romero, Bach and Segovia just to name a few, fill Ed’s portfolio. Jody is a writer and illustrator of children’s books. Her first book is titled, The Enchanted Forest. Soon after, The Enchanted Kingdom and The Enchanted Sea were published. Line drawings of magical characters fill the pages for reading and viewing pleasure for both children and grown-ups alike. Adding to Jody’s creative pursuits are dance, sculpture and computer graphics. After viewing works by both Ed and Jody, I was guided downstairs to a room which once upon a time was a dental lab. Covering the tables and walls, were samples of Ed’s sketches, metal plates and etchings. Ed’s obvious joy of whimsy filled his face as he introduced me to his world of etching. Etchings with titles such as “Sheep on Horse Bach”, “Three Sheeps to the Wind”, “Sheeps Passing in the Night”, and “Sheep Happens”, are only part of the fun in each clever drawing. This fun and stimulating transformation from Bach to Baaa must certainly keep Ed from falling ‘asheep’ on the job! Proudly hanging in Jody’s office are Ed’s many awards for illustrative excellence. Throughout the day, I was awestruck by their talents and generous exchange of mutual respect and admiration. As I drove away, I thought about what Ed’s greatest inspiration might be. I could hear him in my head say, “IT’S A WONDERFUL WIFE”! Editor’s Note: This column provides the opportunity for new members to network with SISD professional illustrators and long-term members. Networking is the best way to find out what is going on in the illustration industry.

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