Born August 3 1960 in Newark, New Jersey to Hezekiah and Miriam Crudup.(Spiritual hint). I am the fifth oldest out of 11 children. Early in my childhood there was an attempt made by mom to raise us religiously through the catholic faith. Unfortanetly we were not destined to be alter boys. During these years I was influenced by the 60's pop culture. At every opportunity I was drawing comics on notebook paper and rendering grand pieces to display in my room.
Looking back I can say that there was some dedication to art..I became very good at rendering subjects all around me. . There were no plans to pursue a career in art. In my high school yearboo k my interest were centered around writing instead of art.
Inspired by the work of Jacob Lawrence,Auguta Savage, El Greco, Salvador Dali, Norman Rockwell,Gaugin, Picasso ,Diego Rivera Renoir, Degas,Leroy Neiman, and Edward Hopper I began to copy there works instead of finding my own artistic identity.
During the 90's there was renewed optimism which led me to spend time in life drawing and composition classes . I discovered that my passion for art had returned.
Presently I am working as Artist/ Photographer in the Phoenix metro area. I'm blessed to be a servant of the Lord Jesus Christ.. It is in this position that I find peace confidence and joy in being an artist.
Besides the great pleasure of devoting myself to Jesus Christ and my art, I have been blessed with my son Emmanuel James Crudup who also inspires me with his love and passion for life.
