Bartholomew Makes Another Decision - Illustrations

The story Bartholomew Makes Another Decision, the 14th story in The Book of Bartholomew, is illustrated by the illustrious Justin Terlecki.  Some of you might know Justin from his daytime gig at Wet Paint art store, the greatest art store in the country with the finest staff this side of Alpha Centauri.  Justin is a fine print maker and painter.  He creates detailed narratives inspired by memory and personal experiences. Technology and human relationships are consistent themes throughout his work.

For The Book of Bartholomew, Justin captured the excitement and energy of a New Years Eve party at Topping and Charlotte's apartment.  At this point in time, these are the only images of Topping.  I think Justin did a wonderful job of representing what I think of Topping. He is outgoing, uncensored and a bit loud, but friendly and welcoming.  When I wrote in the story that Topping had a Happy New Years hat on, it was kind of a throw away image.  As I continued writing, in my mind, I forgot all about the hat.  BUT in Justin's illustrations the hat is Topping and gorgeously energetic and frenetic and spastic and... friendly.

I also enjoy the energy of the group scene with Dionne Warwick singing in the ethereal background.  Can you say "Party Atmosphere?"  

Originally from Youngstown, Ohio, Terlecki moved to the Twin Cities after earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Youngstown State University. His paintings and prints have been exhibited at The Soap Factory, Minnesota Museum of American Art, Gallery 13, Central Lakes College, and Highpoint Center for Printmaking. In 2009, Justin received a Jerome Foundation Emerging Printmaking grant, funding a series of prints based on his travels to India and Spain. He is currently working on a series of acrylic paintings exploring ideas of communication.

Justin will be illustrating another story in the future.

You can see the final story and illustrations for Bartholomew Makes Another Decision this Friday at bookofbartholomew.blogspot.com.