Lewis Cornell (1947-2019)

Lewis Cornell was an American artist whose wide-ranging practice encompassed portraiture, landscape, abstraction, and mural painting, reflecting both technical versatility and a deep commitment to community engagement. Born on December 17, 1947, to Julius W. Cornell, Sr. and Sarah Sherrill, Cornell demonstrated artistic ability from an early age, a talent he would continue to develop throughout his life.

He received his early education at Atkins High School and went on to study at the North Carolina School of the Arts. He later pursued commercial art training at the Gary Job Corps Training Center in San Marcos, where he further refined his technical skills. His education was briefly interrupted by military service; Cornell served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, where he was honorably discharged and awarded a Purple Heart along with additional service honors.

Following his return, Cornell built a multifaceted career as both a fine artist and a working painter. He produced works across a range of genres, including landscapes, seascapes, abstract compositions, and portraits, demonstrating a facility with multiple mediums and approaches. As the founder of The Artist Speaks, Inc., he also sought to create opportunities for artistic expression and community dialogue, extending his practice beyond the studio.

Cornell’s portraiture included depictions of civic and cultural figures such as Jesse Jackson, Congressman Floyd Flake, and Medal of Honor recipient Lawrence Joel, as well as local officials and community leaders. He also completed religious works and commissions for churches, including interpretations of subjects such as Head of Christ and The Crying Child, reflecting the importance of faith-based imagery within his oeuvre.

His work was exhibited regionally throughout North Carolina and in Washington, including presentations at the Potter’s House Gallery. In addition to his studio practice, Cornell taught art classes at recreation centers in Winston-Salem, contributing to arts education at the local level. His service to the community was recognized with an Outstanding Volunteer Service Award from the Urban Arts program of the Arts Council.

Though he maintained parallel work in industrial painting and commercial employment, Cornell’s artistic output remained central to his life. His career reflects a balance between craftsmanship and accessibility, with a body of work grounded in both personal expression and public engagement.