Sunday, March 16, 2008

HEAVY
The late wonderful Israel "Iz" Kamakawiwoʻole, Hawaiian musican.























Iz was nicknamed "The Gentle Giant" by his admirers. He was described as always cheerful and positive, and he was best known for his love of the land and of the people of Hawaiʻi. He died of weight-related respiratory illness in 1997 at the age of 38.

16 comments:

Kathleen Rietz said...

Very beautifully done! Sad story, though.

Roberta said...

Well done.
His music was so beautiful.

NANCY LEFKO said...

a wonderful tribute.....lovely illustration.

soulbrush said...

this is an incredible illo, as his personality shines from the page. good stuff.

Anonymous said...

I have his "over the rainbow" it's beautiful and sweet....gorgeous illustration...

a : )

sandy said...

This is lovely, well done.

Honor said...

Very nice. I like the simplicity.

isay said...

hi ellen! you know what? he looks like my brother in law.

i like the glow i see in your illustration.

woody said...

This is awesome! I like the loose feel.

Anonymous said...

What a real feeling of warmth and joy in his face - a truly beautiful image!

valerie walsh said...

Wonderful portrait and tribute! You really gave it a beautiful tropical feel as well!

van dyke said...

I am a big fan of 'Iz', too. Every time I hear the 'Over the Rainbow/Wonderful World' song it is bittersweet. Nice illustration, and vibrant colors. Good feeling of depth, too.

thedoodlegirl said...

Thanks so much for your comment on my blog. You are such a talented illustrator. I love your work. I really love the colors and lines in "Garden."

studio lolo said...

I love Izzy!!! Great choice and wonderful portrait.
I loaned my CD to a neighbor and never got it back. I love his rendition of "Country Roads" when he sings "take me home, west mahala...." It cracks me up!

Digital Scott's Illustrationblog said...

I like his music a lot!

ELLA ELVIANA said...

aww Iz reminds me of Jason castro...