It took 51 hours and six black Bic ballpoint pens for local artist Jesse Starr to complete a drawing of Stephen Hawking. The unbelievably realistic portrait is being auctioned off to help Starr’s cousin Jimmy Strawn battle cancer.
Strawn, who lived in Plant City for years, is undergoing treatment for stage IIIb colon cancer. The 42-year-old father of three was diagnosed in 2012. He has since undergone chemotherapy and radiation therapy as well as major surgery. He is currently going through six months of chemotherapy and is not able to work during the therapy.
“This auction is to raise money to help with living expenses during this tough time,” Starr said.
All of the proceeds from the auction will go to Strawn. The starting bid is listed on eBay at $800.
The drawing is 14 inches by 17 inches and comes matted and framed.
Starr was born and raised in Plant City. He is known for his realistic portraits. Starr also is a graphic artist that has created vehicle wraps and advertisements among other things. For more information on Starr visit his Facebook art page.
Strawn also has a fundraiser page on YouCaring.
Where to buy:
The drawing is available on eBay.
Prints can also be ordered at Starr Prints.