Meadowlark Gallery: The Artist Biographies


Woodi Ishmael (1914-1995)
The following is from the website of the U.S. Air Force Oral History Program, courtesy William Butler, Staff Curator HQ Air Education & Training Command
History & Research Office (HQ AETC/HO)

Woodi Ishmael was born in Lewis County, Kentucky, and entered his profession through the Cleveland (Ohio) Institute of Arts and the Art Students League in New York City. He maintained a studio at Troy State University, Troy, Alabama, where he taught drawing, painting, and art appreciation.

As a painter and illustrator, Mr. Ishmael had drawn a weekly syndicated column for the Associated Press Newsfeatures, called, "The Power of Faith;" served as an official artist for the United States Air Force; sailed as artist-in-residence on major ocean lines to deliver art lectures and demonstrations; and officiated as the only courtroom artist at the Jack Ruby trial. In addition, he had done paintings of several Air Force Chiefs of Staff.
View high resolution images of works by Woodi Ishmael when available.