100 Years in the Making

The work began over a hundred years ago when the paper was made. Instead of using canvas or any other new substrate to paint on, the coffee paintings are created on paper that dates back to the late 1800’s and all that history and character is captured within.  

Paper with Roots

The century old paper on which the work is painted originates from  Williams’ great great grandparents general store that has been abandoned since it’s heyday in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.  Nestled in the mountains of Appalachia, the store served mainly country folk who’s livelihood depended on staple crops of the region like tobacco and corn. In between the harvest,  farmers would rack up lists of necessary goods purchased from the store all of which were recorded in ledger books. It is from these historical pages that the artwork is created.

Well Traveled

Though the work originates from antique paper found in the artist’s ancestor’s abandoned store it has traveled far beyond the hills of Appalachia with showings in France, Rome, Israel, as well as exhibitions across the USA.

Word’s Spread

The paintings have also graced the covers and pages of numerous magazines, newspapers, and various publications across the globe including South Korea, Australia, UK, Brazil, India, China, the Netherlands, the United States and more.

Want Some History Of Your Own?

Both original artwork and prints are available in the shop.  Original work is of course limited and often sells out, so availability varies.