Derek Nobbs’ “Dead Men’s Tales” now at Roq La Rue

Using ink, watercolor, and gouache on his personally stained paper, Derek illustrates these tales with uncanny fervor.  The Dead Men are depicted much like their living counterparts, with the exception of their head, which has lost all of its skin and muscle, but has retained expression, facial hair, and glittering gold teeth.  In the case of “The Dead West” it is a beard of intricate lining and detail, while mustaches of the period adorn most of the other Men.  The centerpieces are surrounded with illustrations heavily influenced by traditional tattoo flash.

 

It is anyone’s guess how any of these men died, but each piece lends certain clues to their demise; occupational hazards being high on the list.  It could also be argued that these Men aren’t really dead at all, that they are merely projecting their pure feelings in portraiture while the world continues on.

 

One thing is certain though.  No matter what you choose to do with your life, if you have a tale to tell, Derek Nobbs can help tell it. – Robbie Lowery