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Michael Dean, “HSJ” Team Member, sent me a text stating, “David you have to take a look at Rhett's latest project on his Facebook Page.” I totally understood why when going there.

In 1993, I had Rhett in fifth grade and recognized his artistic ability due to his Indiana Whitt character and other works. In 2015, “HSJ Online” needed a graphic artist, and Rhett has been with us ever since creating our Clock Logo and designing our sponsorship ads. In addition, he came up with a great looking shirt for the famous Strietelmeier Corn Dogs.

He did a wonderful sketch of the Veterans Memorial in the Moravian Cemetery after discussing with Charlie Biggs: owner, editor, and publisher of “The Hope Star-Journal.” Rhett's sketch was later featured in our well-known newspaper. Of course, Rhett's artwork related to the Hope Ride consistently left its mark on shirts and promotional items.

Paul Ashbrook, founder of the popular and charitable Hope Ride with his wife, Carol, that lasted for 32 years, expressed high praise for Rhett when asked about his artistic contributions: “Rhett always exceeded my expectation for his artwork. He became our go-to for art for several years.”

Rhett has now ventured to an area for the first time which will take his artwork all over the place, a truck wrap, possibly even exceeding his own expectations.

“I've finally finished a project I've been working on for a long period," he said. "I rarely do commissions. However, when my friend, Eric Singer from Krypton Comics in Martinsville, asked if I could draw up a truck wrap to promote his business it definitely piqued my interest, and I agreed."

He continues, "So what followed was nearly two years of drawing 100+ heroes and villains from DC and Marvel comics battling it out. I would spend two to three hours on each character starting with paper and pencil. Eventually, I moved to a computer digital drawing program that saved much time. I finalized the artwork about two months ago, and he just got the wrap done recently. Of course, I made it a priority in traveling to Martinsville to check the truck out! It's pretty impressive to see in person and also super validating to see all the work finally come to fruition! Admittedly, I had an array of emotions.”

I suggested to Rhett he would be receiving more calls with his outstanding artwork on the road. He responded saying, “Well, Eric allowed me to place a QR Code on the truck too. I look forward to other such projects while hoping to strike a good balance between them and my own artwork, possibly even returning to my Indiana Whitt project!”

If wishing to find Rhett's online art gallery, please Google WhittGraphics. I guarantee that you will find something for your children and the child within. For years, Rhett has had a booth at Hope Heritage Days, and he is planning on having one again. He always enjoys talking with others and displaying and showing his creative work.