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Well-known artist John Shaw is found dead in his King George County home Date published: 1/19/2010
By CATHY DYSON The day after well-known wildlife artist John Shaw was found dead in his King George County home, those who appreciated his talent--and giving nature--mourned the loss. "He was a wonderful artist, particularly of wildlife and dogs," said Dee McCleskey of King George. "He was well-liked personally. He had a nice way about him, and the community knew him well." Shaw, 67, was found dead in his home, off State Route 3 several miles east of King George Courthouse, Sunday afternoon. Relatives hadn't gotten an official police report, but believe he died of natural causes, said George Shaw, John Shaw's oldest brother. John Shaw was an active member of the King George Church of God, and when he didn't show up at church Sunday--or pick up another family as he usually did--a member went to his home, said Pastor Lance Bacon. Bacon's wife, Crystal, talked with Shaw on Wednesday, and another church member called on Thursday, but didn't reach him. The pastor believes Shaw may have died Wednesday night or Thursday morning. He had a touch of walking pneumonia, Bacon said, and had mentioned he was feeling tired. His family didn't know of other ailments. "He was in much better health than any of us," his brother said. Angela Sawdy, his neighbor, said Shaw looked great a week ago when he came by her house. "If I hadn't known him, I would never have guessed his age," she said. "He was very trim and active." Like others interviewed, Sawdy had only positive things to say about the man who had been her neighbor about 10 years. "He's one of the best human beings I've ever met in my life," she said. "He's going to be missed terribly." In the art world, Shaw was known for his realism and detail. He learned a few basics in a correspondence course, but was self-taught for the most part. He painted all his life--and worked a day job until 1982. That's when he decided to quit his job, tracking satellites for the military, and focus on foxes and geese, tranquil scenes and nostalgic images. His paintings have appeared in Virginia Wildlife Magazine and on waterfowl stamps, calendars and birdseed bags, according to a 2008 story in The Free Lance-Star.
to hear this. He was a wonderful person and of course, in my book, The Artist. He will be much missed.
This is heavy news. I had the opportunity to visit him once in his home studio, and the moment of awe as I entered will be with me forever. I hope that someone continues making prints so that I can add more of his art to my life.
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