Clarence was born in Hillsboro, a small town in Alabama. It was there he developed his God’s given talent with no formal training, with great family and friends support. Over time he had formed his on unique style of drawing. He always believed in creating realistic detailed masterpieces, it would best showcase his utmost abilities. Hundreds of drawings to his credit, the master pencil artist has no signs of slowing down. Striving to always get better with each task is what drives him.
FMM: You had an epiphany while serving in the Air Force in Okinawa, Japan. Tell us more.
While serving in the Air Force, my passion for art got reignited. I had previously experienced something that caused me to actually stopped my pursuit as a professional artist. A strong suggestion to showcase artwork during a black history month Art Exhibition allowed me to resume with my God given gift as a visual artist.
FMM: You are well-known for your sports originals. Tell us about your favorite projects.
I have created some memorable sports art images. In the early 90’s I was commissioned by former Los Angeles Rams WR Willie Flipper Anderson. He desired to occupy a full wall of great black musicians. Then was one in which was created of NBA Tracy Murray and NFL Bo Jackson in which they bought signed as silent auction items for a fundraiser in Las Vegas. I’ve done multiple Roll Tide BAMA drawings. I also had the honor to create one for Dallas Cowboys Thomas Hollywood Henderson. He actually autographed several for me personally endorsed me. My drawing of him will be featured in his upcoming documentary.
FMM: What has been the most challenging project?
My most challenging drawing has got to be my HANDS OF WISDOM piece. There was so much incredible details to capture. I mean from the fingernails, knuckles, fingerprints etc. I actually put it off for a couple years, until I felt I could conquer it. It reminds me of my ancestors hard working hands and so much history passed down through them.
FMM: Tell us about meeting Rosa Parks.
The presentation the will always have top billing is the one of Rosa Parks. This occurred by in 1993 during a black history month luncheon during my Air Force days. Several auxiliaries called upon my services to create special token of appreciation. She’d probably had tons of plaques etc, but a Pencilman original drawing would always register as her time spent at Edwards AFB. Being a part of her legacy in the midst of building my own was awesome. It was my first major presentation and one I continuously share via social media and in conversations now. Thank God I have an image of the presentation. Documentation is very important in validation of what you say.
FMM: You have been commissioned to do Keynote Speakers of Summits. Why is a portrait a memorable gift?
When most people are request in being keynote speakers, they normally receive letters, certificates and plaques. It’s extremely rare to receive an original art piece as a overthetop bonus. Every presentation in which I’ve had the honor of making has totally surprised them. They had no idea what was going on. It will be something they all will remember
FMM: Share creative ways people can use your artwork for social causes?
I haven’t really worked on a lot of social cause drawings. However there is one particular drawing in which I call UNITYII. It of 6 hands of different tones, representing any part of the world. It was inspired by Psalms 133:1. It’s my unity awareness campaign piece. Together we can a difference, if everyone is willing to work together and put our differences aside.
FMM: Not only do you have your artwork, you offer t-shirts and mugs. Tell us more.
Being a realist, I know everyone doesn’t have the budget for quality artwork or even wall space to hang it. That being said, most can afford apparel. That’s when decided to put a few popular drawings on t-shirts, after being asked by my now Michigan graphics partner Thomas. I recently launched my first designer quote t-shirts. It’s SWIA #stay-with-it-ability.
FMM: Share your vision about working with charities and how it can be a WIN-WIN situation.
I believe in giving back to the community, one being via participating in fundraising events. Though they all are of great causes and desire to generate funds to aide in their mission. The artist who donates artwork rarely gets any love and for years I seemed to get the short end of the stick. I made a decision to only donate art to events in which I was attending. Why? Because I could promote myself, better than anyone else can. I then decided to offer an even option to the organizations to generate more funds. I’d submit a collage tier sheet of my artwork in my absence, offering 10%-20% donation of all sales in the aftermath. This way I’d be somewhat ensured some MIC time during the event.
My website www.clarencepointer.com has several video clips from previous events and interviews and I’m listed as Clarence Pointer on all social media outlets.
Your work is always on point. I look forward to purchasing additional artwork from you. I wish you continued success!