GALLERY: Gibson Custom Artist in Residence

Gibson Custom's Artist in Residence: James A. Willis
Gibson Custom has launched a new program that aims to support established and up-and-coming fine artists with studio space and access to the company's craftsmen and women to produce one-of-a-kind artistic collaborations. The first artist, James A. Willis, is known for using oil and acrylic paint to capture the color, light, architecture, and people of his home in New York City. Gibson will announce more details about the application process later this year.

New York City Special Les Paul Details

The Mask of Red Death SG
The third in the Edgar Allen Poe trio is the intricately carved Mask of Red Death SG. The carving extends from the character on the back through the vines on the front of the guitar.

The Mask of Red Death SG Details

Edgar Allen Poe Les Paul
As part of a trio of Poe-inspired instruments, the EAP Les Paul features details that reflect the darkness of the author's work. The guitar has a hand-rubbed blue midnight finish, white binding, aged hardware, and a hand-carved pattern on the top.

The Warhorse Les Paul
A testament to Willis' southern roots and appreciation for Revolutionary War-era folk art, the Warhorse Les Paul features hand-carved woodwork, custom cut and scrimshawed hardware, and a rustic, rough finish that evokes the look and feel of an 18th century musket. The base guitar is a 1957 Reissue Les Paul that Willis finished using period-appropriate materials and tools when possible.

Edgar Allen Poe Les Paul Details

Canvas Works
In addition to the custom guitars, Willis has produced a collection of canvas paintings that reflect his inspirations from working with Gibson in Nashville. The subjects range from Gibson's iconic instruments to the skyline of Nashville, to light coming through the windows of the Artist in Residence studios.

The Raven Flying V Details

New York City Special Les Paul
The New York Special Les Paul is the first work produced as part of the Gibson Custom Artist in Residence program. Inspired by Willis' love of the Manhattan skyline and the water towers hidden within, the New York City Special features hand-carved wood, inlaid copper, and acrylic painting. The copper hardware is untreated so it will wear naturally with time.

The Raven Flying V
Also in the Poe trio, the Raven V has hand-carved embellishments on the back, gold-leaf details, and aged hardware. The guitar is finished to allow the hand-carving and tool work to show through, with hand-rubbed black and satin coats.