Keith's painting pays tribute to WilsonLocal artist Ron Keith’s second painting in his planned Homecoming Christmas collection was unveiled Monday at a meeting of the American Legion Post 179, Marion Unit, in Blanchester. Why? Because Chester “Red” Wilson, a 63-year member of the Post, is a figure in the painting.
This year, Keith’s original painting portrays soldiers outside the old Blanchester train depot as they arrive home. Also included in the painting, in the lower right hand corner near where the artist signed his name, is one of Clinton County’s oldest veterans, the 89-year-old Wilson, observing the activity outside the depot and tipping his cap.
Wilson broke out in a big smile after the painting was unveiled and he saw to his surprise that he was portrayed in the piece of art.
As he did last year with his first painting in the series, Keith will donate this latest work to Blanchester ALIVE. It will be auctioned off about 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 at the Blanchester Auction Center, with proceeds going to Blanchester ALIVE.
Last year’s painting by Keith, of the Bindley Building in downtown Blanchester, fetched $550 at auction.
Blanchester ALIVE’s aim, according to founding member Diana Miller, is to bring together local business owners and community members who share a vision of instilling new life and vitality into the Blanchester business community.
The painting by Keith, one of Clinton County’s finest visual artists currently creating, will be on display at the First National Bank of Blanchester starting Wednesday, Nov. 23.
Postcards as well as 13-by-19 inch prints of the painting will soon be available.
Wilson is a U.S. Army veteran who served in the 83rd Infantry Division during World War II. He received the Military Order of Purple Heart and was decorated with the Oak Leaf Cluster.
Brother Chester Wilson is the Grandfather of WB Todd Wilson DEO Eighth District
Courtesy of Wilmington News Journal
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