A local abstract artist, Randall Montgomery, from Evansville, Indiana, has expanded his retirement routine from painter to publisher of coloring books. His art name is “Monty!” He adopted this shortened version because he often ran out of space when signing his paintings and stylized drawings.
He recently published three coloring books with different twists—images without heavy black outlines. According to Monty, traditional coloring books have heavy lines around an object. In the artist’s opinion, these lines retards children and adults from fully expressing their creativity. And when the coloring is done, those heavy lines are so annoying. Instead, Monty designs his drawings with light lines and patterns as shading art elements, revealing a realistic and exciting composition. Both young and old can color the pages with colored pencils, highlighters, and crayons. Blending colors over existing colors adds impact to the finished art.
Since retirement in 2017, Monty has rediscovered his early childhood dream of being an artist. “I used to paint on rotted wood, rocks, trashed items, and virtually anything I could as a young artist. However, after graduation, I started a design studio doing commercial art projects. It was so dull, but it made a living for my family.”
“What to do with all the stored art?” he asked. Then, one day, a serendipity moment flashed across his mind: Create coloring books! And from that moment, he was off designing and creating coloring books, portfolio coffee table books, and calendars.
Specifically, Monty has published a sci-fi space-travel coloring book based on characters from his comedy book, The Chronicles of Zu and Lu, Vibes Gone Berjerk! He also published an abstract art and stress relief book.
Monty adds, “I would like to get children and adults to explore art as a creative endeavor and a vehicle for stress relief and intuitive expression. Each person is alive with “art DNA” inside themselves. Connect into this often unused “river of discovery” and enjoy life, express feelings often hidden from childhood days. Life is full of opportunity. Explore your intuitive self and this creative dimension we are all a part of.”
Several methods are available to achieve Monty’s mission, and coloring books are at the core. Monty envisions non-profits, educational classes, and afterschool events using coloring as the common element to bring quality communication to a community. Hosting coloring parties is one way to bring people together. “We are human beings who need each other. Returning to our innate consciousness amid a cold, technological reality is vital. Art in any form allows humanity to express itself…it has been that way for thousands of years.” he adds.
In addition, Monty believes that Evansville needs to recognize its many local artists and get these creative, insightful people involved in social discussion, community planning, and governmental projects. Art projects create better neighborhoods and reduce violence. Listen to artists. They are so informative.
Lastly, artists seeking to market their work can ask Monty for assistance in developing coloring books, portfolio books, calendars, and anything else that raises artistic awareness.
Coloring books are available at Monty’s website, Twymon Art Gallery, Inman Picture Framing, or Your Brothers Bookstore. For more information, visit www.montydesigncollection.com or write Astroman1000@hotmail.com.
Monty’s books will be available at the Writers Fest, which will be held on the Evansville downtown walkway in front of Your Brothers Bookstore on September 28 from 1 to 5 p.m.
