R.L. Lewis
Acrylic | Oil
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Biography
R.L. Lewis is one of the quietly creative and versatile figures of a Florida Landscape Artist tradition that has become known as the “Highwaymen”. Lewis was born in Cocoa, Fl. on the Indian River Lagoon, as the third of six siblings. His mother was inspirational in helping to encourage his desire to sketch and draw what he saw. A sports injury during his junior year in high school forced him to be assigned to art class at historically black Monroe High School in 1958. His High School Art Teacher encouraged and assisted Lewis in bringing forth his artistic talents. He drew large crowds of students in art class watching him sketch. Much of his inspiration came from reading an article given to him by his teacher about the Great Florida Landscape Artist Harold Newton.
Heavily encouraged by a family friend to further pursue his artistic talents at the college level. Attended Edward Water College (Jacksonville, FL), Syracuse University (New York) and finally Florida A&M University (Tallahassee, FL) before graduating in 1966 with a B.A. Degree in Art Education. Worked as an Illustrator for Boeing upon graduation. Taught Art Education in Brevard County for 32 years. Worked for over 15 years as a part-time teacher at Brevard Community College as an Art Adult Education instructor from the late 1970’s to the early 1990’s. Also taught for the Cocoa Village Art Adult Education Association on a part-time basis for over 10 years.
Lewis worked as an illustrator for Boeing upon graduation. He taught art education in Brevard County for 32 years as well as teaching Adult Art Education at Brevard Community College from the late 1970's to the early 1990's.