I first met Michael Pearce at Modern Times Urban Truck Stop at 54th and College Avenue in 1998. He was interesting and inspiring to talk to. He from North Carolina, me from Kentucky, we could have shared a southern bond. But no, everyone at Modern Times enjoyed having Michael Pearce in the joint. Seeing Michael bellied up to the bar with a cup of joe was always a warming sight.

Michael Pearce was the first truly gifted sketch artist that I had met. With just a pad and pencil - the simplicity of it all. Michael sketched me and Michael Lochmüeller as well as other characters at M.T.U.T.S. The sketch of Michael by Michael was truly remarkable. It drew quite a buzz from the coffee guzzling crowd.

In recent years I have come to know the oil portraits that Michael puts so much attention and care into. The blending of colors on the canvas bring so much life to the subject.

The painting that Michael is holding below is of me, painted earlier this year. It is shown before its later completion.