Busking Seattle – Pike Place Market – August 18, 2016
My buddy Joshua, when told that I would be sketching, had given me a minimalist keep-kids-busy-at-the-restaurant-size crayon box (4 colors), which I vowed to put to use. VanDam, a real howler, got the call for this exploration of a new medium, unleashing a startling irony. Of all my recent sketchings, his portrait seemed to have a most direct gaze, despite its gauzy haze. Only later did I come to realize, and confirm, that he is blind, and had been totally oblivious to my activities. Well, except for when I sang along a bit (on “Honky Cat”). Getting the autograph was an adventure.
Chad VanDam
Mike E. Bell