This week’s Welcome To Sanford Artist of the Week is popular local oil painter Ty Hooker. Among his many achievements as an artist, Ty was honored on June 8 at the Lee County Enrichment Center, as the Sanford Brush & Palette Club’s 2019 Artist of the Year. Our first image comes from the exhibition, as club vice president Doug Rowe presents Ty with a commemorative plaque at the reception. Several of Ty’s works of art were displayed at this special event.
Ty was born in Chatham County and spent his childhood growing up in Sanford, where he graduated from the W.B. Wicker School. Ty graduated from NC Central with a Bachelor’s Degree in Art, before his career led him to stops in Washington DC and Florida. Ty spent many years working for the US Postal Service, but never lost his passion for art. While living and working in Florida, he studied with renowned artist Paul Foropoulos, was an active member of the Tarpon Springs Art Association and exhibited in several local art shows. During his time in Washington DC, Ty remained active in the arts by participating in several workshops and art classes.
When it was time to retire, it was also time for Ty to return to Sanford. Ty comments, “I always knew I would return to Sanford. There’s no place like home.” After many years of fitting his love of art into a full schedule, Ty is now able to focus his energies on his painting. As Ty notes, now “painting is the main thing!”
Oil painting is Ty’s preferred medium and he loves painting animals, birds, still lifes and portraits. An active member of the Brush & Palette Club, Ty has served on club committees, exhibited his work in local venues such as the Temple Theatre and participated in the club’s annual art show, where he has earned several awards.
Artist of the Week is a feature that is devoted to Sanford’s dynamic arts community and the hundreds of talented individuals who are a part of it. Painters — potters — performing artists — musicians and much more! If you, or someone you know, is deserving of recognition, please click here, or on the Artist of Week badge and fill out a nomination document.
