J. A. Lacey ~ Artist, Jacksonville, FL
Jim Lacey, known as "Pappy to his friends, was trained as a commercial artist in New York during the sixities (or so he's been told). For many years, Pappy has made his living painting signs, murals, airbrushing cars and motorcycles, and working outdoor craft and art shows.
Eventually, he came to rest in the outdoor entertainment business, better known as carnivals, painting murals on rides, concessions, and whatever needed painted. Over time, he began to specialize in kiddie rides, carousels, and fun houses. Pappy has done work for most major carnival operations and several standing amusement parks.
Carnival work may have paid the bills for the past thirty years but Pappy's first love has always been figurative painting. A long-time Florida native with an enduring love of the ocean, he now has time for the type of painting he has always enjoyed most. A favorite subject of his work is Florida landscapes, beach scenes, and seascapes. Additionally, Pappy enjoys painting murals for children's rooms, day care centers, and schools. The carnival theme continues with fanciful paintings of unique carousel critters.
