A new portrait honoring local blues musician Rich Lockhart is now on display at House of Rock in downtown Corpus Christi.
Lockhart, a popular figure in the local music scene, died in late March. On Wednesday, friends, supporters and community members gathered to dedicate the artwork celebrating his life and legacy.
The portrait was created by local artist Alison Schuchs, who shared with 3NEWS the story behind the piece.
Schuchs said the inspiration dates back to January, when Lockhart stepped in to model for a painters group at the Art Center after another model canceled. During that session, the two struck up a conversation that would eventually lead to the portrait.
“He wanted a portait of him painted in that theme,” Schuchs said. “He said for me to come to one of his gigs and paint live. Well that never really materialized because he passed away. I wanted to keep my promise to him and go ahead and paint it.”
When it came time to find a permanent home for the portrait, Schuchs said the choice was clear.
The artwork is now displayed at House of Rock, a venue she said held a special connection to Lockhart and his music.