40x24 Acrylic on canvas

The Smokers Series

"The Drag" is a part of my Cigar Series, and features a man named Arana. Arana is an interesting person. A rising star in Cleveland's yoga community, this piece captures Arana in a relaxed moment enjoying a glass of bourbon while savoring a drag from a cigar. Dressed in a dark gray hat, scarf, and coat, the picture exudes a sense of quiet confidence and sophistication. I tried to use the contrast between his attire and the black leather chair he's sitting on to bring out a depth, highlighting the intricate details of both his clothing and the chair's gold buttons. My focus was on details, from the folds of Lynch's coat to the subtle glow of the bourbon glass. Through this painting, I aim to convey a sense of calm elegance and introspection, capturing a moment of personal enjoyment and Arana's unique character.

36x36 Acrylic on Canvas

The Smokers Series

"Smoker Series: Exhale" stands as a captivating portrayal, capturing a moment of profound tranquility and release. The focal point of the painting is a woman, depicted in a state of serene contemplation as she exhales a plume of smoke from a cigar. Each brushstroke is meticulously crafted to convey the essence of relaxation, with the warm glow of the lighting enveloping her features in a soft, inviting aura. Her expression exudes a sense of calm assurance, while the elegant lines of her fingers delicately cradle the cigar, inviting the viewer to share in her moment of repose. Positioned against a subtly muted background, the subject's form commands attention, evoking a sense of dynamic movement within the frame. This juxtaposition of stillness against a backdrop of subdued tones adds depth and dimension to the scene, drawing the viewer deeper into the atmosphere of quietude and reflection. Through "Smoker Series: Exhale," the artist invites us to partake in the subject's journey of inner peace and contentment, encouraging us to embrace the serenity found in moments of solitary indulgence.

18x24 Acrylic on canvas

The Smokers Series

It has been said that Smoke is an incredibly striking painting that pulls you right into its world. A part of the Smoker’s Series, it features a black woman with a stunning afro, confidently smoking a cigar. The close-up perspective makes it feel like you're right there with her, sharing an intimate moment. Her yellow blouse and gold hoop earrings add this cool, stylish vibe, while the ring on her third finger gives a touch of elegance. The smoke from the cigar almost completely covers her face, creating this mysterious, almost dreamy effect that makes you want to look closer and try figure out what she's thinking or focusing on. The background is minimal, yet symbolic with a bold, yet mellow red on one side and green on the other. Her large, black afro perfectly separates these two colors, subtly though purpously giving a red, black, and green color combination. It's like there's a hidden story or meaning to the story. Smoke is meant to not just be a painting, but an experience. You can almost smell the cigar, feel the texture of her blouse, and get lost in the swirling smoke. Some have told me that this piece really made them stop and appreciate the artistry and the emotion it conveys. ©2025 Raydraws, L.L.C. All Rights Reserved.

24x24 Acrylic on canvas

The Smokers Series

The Drag is deliberate. The slowness of it is the point — a long pull, eyes forward, unbothered. This piece is about taking your time, owning the moment, refusing to be rushed.

Acrylic on Canvas

The Smokers Series

Mild Bricks is a departure — an illustrative, cartoon-style work that shows a different dimension of the practice. Bold lines, flat color, graphic sensibility. Sometimes the city itself is the subject.