Grayson Library Displays Work of Local Artist

Residents visiting the Grayson Library this year have been treated to an art exhibit by local Grayson artist Don E Lee. A collection of the 81-year-old artist’s work graced the library walls and Lee himself could even be found there a time or two, talking to visitors and giving them a little history behind his works.

“The way you see my work, is the way I saw it,” Lee said in explaining why his scenes are not always pristine. “If there is a dead leaf on a plant, that is how I’m going to draw it. I want you to be able to see it exactly as I did.”

Born and raised in Jacksonville, Fla., Lee began drawing at an early age. Living on the St. Johns River, he had plenty of material to work with. His interest was further peaked by other artist friends of the family who would spend weekends taking advantage of the scenic environment, painting boats, docks and other river scenes. Lee went on to study art, design and drafting at the University of Hawaii. He also took painting classes at Clayton Jr. College in Morrow.

Lee said as his interest in art emerged, so did his love of plants, particularly tropical plants. He has his own orchids and bromeliads in a greenhouse at his home in Grayson, providing him with a constant source of inspiration. Some of his floral paintings were included in Lee’s exhibit at the Grayson Library. His works include watercolors, pen and ink and oil paintings and acrylic craft items. He has illustrated books and has several collections of note cards that he has drawn or painted. Wooden toys were another of Lee's interests over the years.

Lee has traveled all over the world, first while in the Navy, which took him to the Pacific and prompted his interest in tropical plants. He later had the opportunity to travel, with his wife Kathryn, in search of artistic inspiration. His pictures, some of them on display, bear witness to those travels.

“We’ve been to Mexico, Israel, Greece, Egypt, Canada – the Bahamas – you will see some of those scenes in my paintings,” Lee said, adding, “Painting is my second love – my wife of course being my first.”

As members of the Grayson United Methodist Church, Lee often donates some of his works to be used as fundraisers for various causes the church is supporting. He is also very community oriented and supportive of the city of Grayson. Lee said he usually has a stand displaying his works at the Grayson Day festival in April each year.

“I expect to be there again this year,” he said.

Over the years Lee has been able to use his artistic talent to earn a living – sometimes through selling his works off art exhibitions and for many years through a framing shop he owned.

“We would frame my pictures and also the works of others,” Lee said, addomg “But is more of a hobby for me now.”

Lee said he does however, still take orders if anyone wants to commission a special piece and he does sell his note cards and some of his other art work. His note cards are available at the Grayson Arts and History Center.

Anyone who missed the exhibit at the Grayson Library, will get another opportunity to view Lee’s work at Grayson Day on April 28.