Welcome
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Behind the Artist
R. A. McLendon Jr.
Roy McLendon Jr. captures the essence of the Indian River with vibrant landscapes. Once-familiar sights of locals fishing and repairing nets adorn his Treasure Coast, South Florida paintings. His work resonates with emotional depth and an invigorating sense of tranquility. Signed with his initials, R. A. McLendon Jr., each piece tells a story. Beyond his artistic endeavors, Roy Jr. holds a doctorate in Theology and has provided spiritual leadership to a Vero Beach congregation for over two decades. Together with his wife Carla and their six wonderful children, they extend their care through programs at a nearby assisted living community. Roy's creative talents also flow through music, as he skillfully plays the keyboard and composes. The McLendon family continues to inspire and connect with their community through art and service.
Rooted in the Past
An Artistic Heritage
Roy draws from the deep cultural and environmental history of his Gifford community to create art that feels timeless. With a palette that evokes vitality, his paintings explore themes of resilience and identity. His work connects the viewer to a South Florida shaped by the traditions and stories of the people who call it home. Through his work, Roy seeks not just to recreate these scenes but to preserve their significance. His paintings are infused with an almost archival quality, honoring the people, places, and stories that have been woven into the fabric of South Florida’s history. Whether it’s the subtle detailing of a weathered structure or the soft glow of a sunset over a waterway, each piece serves as a tribute to the past, offering viewers a tangible connection to a world that has evolved but not been forgotten.
~Exploring~ the Canvas~
PERSISTENCE • ORIGINALITY • EXPRESSION
The Signature
Circa 1972
Displayed on the left is one of Roy Jr’s old paintings discovered at the Anderson Consignment in Vero Beach, FL. It was painting in the 70's on Upson board and is uniquely signed “McLendon R.J.”. The painting depicts his home in Gifford, not far from the city of Vero Beach on the Indian River. The house was built by Bahamians and had a caribbean motif. A drainage ditch is a little beyond the front yard, a common scene in Gifford during that period. Like streets, the drainage ran through Gifford in order to capture wetlands of West Vero. The painting’s original frame was made out of crown molding and has since been replaced. Few painters would think that drainage ditches were aesthetically pleasing; however, Roy was painting/recording what he saw.
Time to Craft
DEDICATION• CRAFTMANSHIP •PASSION
The process behind .the paintings: Each piece, regardless of scale, requires a unique amount of time, reflecting his dedication and meticulous attention to detail. Whether it's a small canvas or a large masterpiece, the time invested varies, showcasing the depth of his artistic commitment. As you view Roy's paintings, we urge you to search and see how each stroke of the brush comes together to create the final product
His paintings are not merely visual experiences, but testaments to the hours of hard work and dedication poured into each piece. The varying time invested in each work allows him to master different techniques and convey feelings of nostalgia; those emotions compel many to say, "This is 'Old Florida'". Roy McLendon Jr.'s ability to adapt his process to the demands of each piece showcases his versatility and unwavering commitment to his craft.
