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Rodney Demps (1953-2020)
Rodney Demps was captivated by art since childhood. His journey began at Lincoln Park Academy, where he took art classes under the guidance of Zanobia Jefferson, who had previously taught notable artist Alfred Hair. Jefferson introduced Demps to the renowned painter A. E. "Bean" Backus, allowing him to observe Backus at work. "I started my artwork at Lincoln Park Academy in a class of seniors (8th graders),' Demps recalled. This mentorship proved invaluable, as he learned the intricacies of oil painting, which initially felt messy but became more refined with practice. Through Backus, he met Hair, who would teach him how to build frames and eventually encouraged him to paint the expansive Florida skies. Demps painted various scenes, including coastal landscapes.
Following Hair's untimely passing in 1970, Demps continued to create art for several years before deciding to return to academia. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Health, Physical Education, and Fitness, later achieving a Master of Education in 1980. His academic pursuits were complemented by a two-year commitment to the U.S. Marine Corps, which shaped his identity as a Marine more than that of an artist. This dual identity influenced his artistic expression and approach to life, ultimately enriching his body of work.
Rodney Demps' art is celebrated for its distinctiveness and ethereal surrealism. His early landscapes, influenced by Hair, feature a unique blend of speed painting techniques and Demps' own surrealistic style, emphasizing light, movement, and vibrant color. Each piece serves as a testament to his growth as an artist and his deep-rooted passion for capturing the beauty of Florida's landscapes.