Page 59 - NOMADS_NO1_2015

As a mostly self-taught artist, Sam began creating paintings, collages and lithographs that were noted for their graphic rhythmic quality. Enjoying his artistic success and freedom, he continued to ex- pand his horizons by living in Mexico, Spain, Den- mark and Sweden. As an African-American living the expatriate life, he became close friends with a wide variety of cultural icons that included James Baldwin and Nina Simone.
Drawn to Holland’s beautiful light, like so many painters before him, Sam finally decided to plant himself some roots in one spot. He has been liv- ing in Holland since 1962 and is now one of the country’s most acclaimed painters.
Ragtime 1981
In Holland Sam is truly ‘the man’, so much so that his adopted hometown of Schagen, of- ten painted by Rembrandt, staged a city-wide celebration for his 80th birthday.
Showing no signs of slowing down, Sam is still answering phone calls from young ladies asking for interviews and creating new art. His work is widely exhibited and collected by major museums and pri- vate collections throughout the world. What is his philosophy about life and art? “Your work is the interpretation of your free spirit, if you have one”.
58