The work of local artist R.J. Caldwell is now on display in the art gallery at the Suzette Brumleve Memorial Effingham Public Library.
My love of art started at around 7 or 8 when I would sketch the comics. I progressed to painting with oils when I was around 9. While attending St. Anthony High School I took all the art classes available including adult art classes. I then attended Lakeland College and took two more years of art classes. When I finished at Lakeland College, I was employed at World Color Press as the photo lithographer for 33 years. During this time, I was busy with work, family and life. I had to put my art on hold.
After World Color Press closed it’s plant, I once again turned to art. I joined the Effingham Art Guild. I am always looking at nature and taking photographs with paintings in mind. My family and friends even send photographs to me thinking that they would be something I would like to paint. Art allows people to see nature as I see it.
I also like to sketch and doodle in my free time. These sometimes lead to a painting. I have been branching out and exploring abstract as well as experimenting with the pour paintings which has been a lot of fun. My grandchildren love to experiment with pour paintings and other art forms with their Pop-Pop.
Art and imagination is in everyone. Pick up a pencil, pen, brush and let your art free.
Enjoy!
J.R. Caldwell’s art will be showcased from Jan. 2nd to Feb. 28th 2026
