PW Select – Publishers Weekly

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Norma Jean’s Sun – True Story Memoir by American Artist Kris Courtney

Listing & Book Review

@Publishers Weekly Select October 2011

This “touching story, full of hope” tells of a young man who believes he was mistakenly born as a man and of his journeys through drug and alcohol addiction as well as years of surgical interventions.

American Artist Kris Courtney’s Flickr Set

American Artist Kris Courtney’s photostream on Flickr.

Norma Jean’s Sun, True Story Book Reviews

Recent Reviews:

This book is a labor of love. It covers a man’s life gone horribly wrong – the author’s. It is an example of how history can repeat itself. The story begins with an abusive step father, and cycles forward. Many times a person is able to rise above his situation, to varying degrees. Clearly, this is not one of those examples. In this regard, it is a painful reminder of human weakness. At the end, you wish for some redemption, but there is none. Of any change this novel may wish to impart, it is hoped to be one where a family is reunited, apologies are given (and clearly lived out), and no one is left to live or die alone.

AMAZON 5 Star Review:
A ” must-read ” for all who ponder their roots and family life. This is an intense , compelling story of a baby who was born defective in body but not in spirit. The reader must be prepared for a journey like no other that visits incest between cousins and the heartbreak that follows. Written with grace and style, Norma Jean’s Sun should be on the New York Times bestseller list within the year !

American Artist Kris Courtney – Original Artistry

American Artist Kris Courtney – Original Artistry, a set on Flickr.

Free Expression

The theme behind most of artistic efforts. As my artistry leans towards a Primitive Literalism (Avant-garde), my heart and mind continue to expand in color expressionism that allows my spirit and soul comfort.

2010 Year-end Summary and Gratitude …

What a year this has been!
Bless you and thank you again for your support and kindness in my journey and struggles. Although the path has not been always smooth, it has been paved with love and generosity from all those I have traveled with …

The Year started with a BANG and the newly released ‘Final Editors Edition of Norma Jean’s Sun on December 15th, just two weeks prior to the New Year. And as of to date, the Amazon reviews are holding steady in rating (4.6 out of 5 Stars)!!! I had the honor over the past 12 months to promote and present book club signings, appearances and speak to the content, message and impact of this True Story Memoir. It is my hope and prayers that the experiences of my life, the lessons learned and travel endured will continue to inspire, move and engage the reader to a meaningful experience also.

My artistic activity in 2010 has been nothing short of a Gods Blessing and gift. In May 2010, I was again recognized by the Art Academy of Cincinnati for a third event and presented in the SOS-2010 ART10, Sociopolitical Expression gallery. This show contained works from all over the United States and was primarily focused on awareness and the movement of Artistry to impact the community. “Broken Fence & Pain Faces”

The year did not stop here by no means.
“Play Me, I’m Yours – Street Piano” by Luke Jerram was presented as an available expression through Urban Environment and the capturing of space in August. Together, International Artist Luke Jerram & American Artist Kris Courtney join forces to create a graphic bridge of Urban Expression. By the efforts of Oxford Community Arts Center director Caroline Croswell and the Public Radio Celebration of Greater Cincinnati to celebrate the anniversaries of 90.9 WGUC (50 years), 91.7 WVXU (40 years), and 88.5 WMUB Oxford – I was asked to lead a task of artists to present a Symbolic Icon. Under the theme of international unity, I was inspired to present abstract views of American and UK flags in brilliant primary colors. Chrissy Collopy added her avant-garde expressions, and Stephanie Zing contributed a delightful glass and found object mosaic to the work. Questioning the ownership and rules of public space ‘Play Me I’m Yours’ is a provocation, inviting the public to engage with, activate and take ownership of their urban environment.

Simultaneously at this same period, Starbucks Coffee house provided and acknowledged gallery & display space for three of my more earthy toned and Java themed works to become center display items in the local Café. “Pueblo, Pacific 1 & Back Alley”

Soon following as the year rolled into the second half, my collection of recognized work and benevolent involvements began to draw additional exposure. “Finished Nude” an original Ink on Canvas, was recognized and accepted as the Feature Submission to International Musical Group – Coldplay. This painting was liked on Facebook and other Social Media sites for the entire first week of September. Ironic to that being around the same time I turned 51 in age – Oh well, getting old does seem to have its rewards.

In the past year I created a number of works that seemed to follow a power or energy of impression and yet still contained inside Primitive Literalism. Each painting subtle to contain another view and only disclosed upon closer exam. I use a large amount of effort to release what I envision and pray the viewer can not only observe, but also feel and view the information contained inside the brush stroke. With “One, Storm & ACT” serving as the flagship works for 2010, I found myself emerging into a wider view of what I can and can not become a part of in my artistry. I am limited, humbling in acceptance to that fact yet still gives me great pleasure and power to live in a surrendered state to what I can become…

In October I signed an agreement to move into an old broken down house that even to this day, has a leaky roof! Who’s STUPID Idea was this anyway??? Oh, I guess it was mine huh… Well, the house is situated on a main thoroughfare just outside Oxford and now – I have begun to open my own Private Gallery & Studio with a tentative date for the ‘Artist’s in the Corner’ Music & Art festival in College Corner with National Blues Musician Jim Jackson (Bad Men on a Mission) June 12th 2011. The focus I wanted to express was to provide a benevolent support to a community in struggle with the current economic concerns and hopefully provide a revenue generating event. The goal is also to capture eclectic and unique true Artisans for a small and genuine Fine Arts event. The response has already been larger than expected and assures that no matter what, we are going to have some fun on that Sunday afternoon – please consider a visit…

Wow, what a year this was. A move (as needed), an award winning event (as grateful), national book promotion (as blessed), illness (as usual), failures (as accepted) and the support of all you in each of my tasks. I can not move another inch forward without telling each and everyone of you how much it means and inspires me to know you have enjoyed my talents. They are God given in my heart and truly belong to you, I am only the carrier and messenger. If I have served no other purpose in 2010 other than to make you aware of a benevolent cause, shine a light on a need or color your sight with imagery, then it has been enough and I appreciate that moment. I have struggled this year but I have also found the sincere joy in knowing there are those of you who love me, care for me and are also looking forward to my artistry and journey. The year to come is filling fast and with Foster Child Enrichment ‘Suitcase Full of Blues’ April 30th, 2011 & Artist’s in the Corner, it is shaping up to be a Blast! I invite you to come along with me, take the lead or allow me to walk with you. Either way, I pray that your heart and soul is filled with Peace, Happiness and the Prosperity to do for others in 2011…

Thank you,

Kris
www.kriscourtney.com

Play Me, I’m Yours – Street Piano

Play Me, I’m Yours – 2010 Cincinnati

International Artist Luke Jerram & American Artist Kris Courtney join forces to create a graphic bridge of Urban Expression. To learn more, visit Play Me, I’m Yours Cincy

In August 2010, Cincinnati Public Radio will present ‘Play Me, I’m Yours’ by Luke Jerram in celebration of the 50th anniversary of 90.9 WGUC, the 40th Anniversary of 91.7 WVXU and the 60th Anniversary of 88.5 WMUB.

Using the inspiration of international unity, Courtney was inspired to present abstract views of American and UK Flags with a theme of brilliant primary colors. Through the Avant-garde style of Chrissy Collopy’s bold expressions, Stephanie Zing completes the arrangement with a collection of unique glass mosaic. Ironic to this fact, Luke Jerram is colour blind yet provides an interconnected resource, a blank canvas, for the public to express themselves and share their creativity. Questioning the ownership and rules of public space 'Play Me I'm Yours' is a provocation, inviting the public to engage with, activate and take ownership of their urban environment.

2009 Gallery and Year End Summary of Events

American Artist Kris Courtney – 2009 Collection

In the previous year, American Artist & Author Kris Allen Courtney has been prolific in the utmost fashion. His collection of artwork ranges from the uncomplicated still life, dramatic spiritual impression, zestful animal and landscape depictions to the inspiring and provocative nude. In the termed Genre of Primitive Literalism, the paint escapes the canvas into the viewer’s realm to offer a glimpse of unique colorful expression.

In the course of this year’s publication, Bethesda Medical of Greater Cincinnati extended an opportunity for two selections to be included in the Grand Opening of the Mary Jo Cropper Family Center. Coincidently prior to release, the back cover of Norma Jean’s Sun – a true story memoir also written by Courtney, “Passing” was included into this arrangement. The image captures the transparency of life, which was an emotional reaction to his Fathers death. “Road King” as well is hanging proudly to display the excitement and abstract interest in an afternoon Harley Davidson motorcycle ride. Each of these works considered gems in the year events.

In April, Norma Jean’s Sun – a true story memoir was release on Amazon.com. Originally published as an un-edited copy, the contents paralleled the life and journey of Courtney’s mother, Norma Jean. As the moving tale reveals, not only the struggle and heartrending elements of generational lives “gone wrong,” but also the love and growth of a human being overcoming the odds and determined to find a way to live life to the fullest. Based on a true story, the author’s unapologetic prose prompts enduring ethical questions and makes a gripping, personal read.

The months of September and October offered even more gratitude and publicity as Kris began his preliminary book signing tour at Middfest International Indonesia in Middletown Ohio. As well, his painting “Fragrance” gained an audience, as it became part of the Southwest Ohio Area Show judged by the Art Academy of Cincinnati. A very limited and highly visible Gallery of select works at the MAC.

As the year began to end, Courtney has continued to gain praise from readers and art connoisseurs throughout the region and abroad. Creativity drawn from both personal experience and the talented mind’s eye of a master, this energy is sure to gain in both current and visibility. As reviews continue to gain character with such phrases as, “fascinating introspective” and “beautifully written”, Kris’s first authored account, Norma Jean’s Sun, will certainly exceed expectations. As stated in previous, it is clear that it is the hope of this author; artist and student of the world around, your conclusions will lead to a more fulfilled view of the “parallel beauty that lives just beneath the surface for us all.”

Kris Courtney

Norma Jean’s Sun, true story memoire

Cincinnati, OH, December 2009: Available for immediate purchase; nationally distributed through Amazon.com. Miraculous tale of how a boy, born into unimaginable physical and emotional pain and destined to be a misfit, finds his way in a world of “others.” Few could survive so many torturous years of surgical intervention and a ensuing lifelong struggle with drugs and alcohol addiction and come out ahead. This moving tale reveals not only the struggle and heartrending elements of generational lives “gone wrong,” but also the love and growth of a human being overcoming the odds and determined to find a way to live life to the fullest. Based on a true story, the author’s unapologetic prose prompts enduring ethical questions and makes a gripping, personal read.

This newly edited release of Norma Jean’s Sun will certainly exceed expectations. The story is not only convincingly true, but will rivet the reader with its genuine and unassuming pathos. Norma Jean’s Sun is painfully reflective yet ultimately hopeful, a story told through the eyes of a boy who believes he has been mistakenly born into the world and a man who conquers physical and emotional injustice–and thrives. The reader will be challenged to answer the difficult questions of right and wrong as they may apply to his or her own life. It is clear that it is the hope of this author that the reader’s conclusions will lead to a more fulfilled view of the “parallel beauty that lives just beneath the surface for us all.”

An artist in spirit and gift, Kris Courtney has lived much of his life in the Midwest and currently resides and works in Oxford, Ohio. Surrounded by talent and gifted students of life, he is dedicated to service and volunteer work. A percentage of the earnings from Norma Jean’s Sun book will go to research for Parkinson’s disease and colon cancer in recognition of the illnesses that attacked his grandmother Flossie and his mother, Norma Jean.

Read a portion of Norma Jean’s Sun or purchase the online eBook Kindle version on Amazon.com at: Amazon Books

With continued growth in awareness and sales, Cover Art and Nomination for Best Memoir 2009, Norma Jean’s Sun is surpassing my wildest dreams. I am so glad that you and those who have left comments are finding the spirit I intended in my original writing.

Please be sure to pass the word around and share your opinions with others as well. Thank you…

Art Awards Issued

Enjoy the ride...

Bethesda Medical Center, West Chester Ohio issues two Awards for Artwork by Kris Courtney. Included are “Road King” and “Passing” the cover art of his Novel, Norma Jean’s Sun.

With completion of the Mary Jo Cropper Family Center in July, the artwork selected will be installed prior to the Grand Opening. In our effort to create a warm and personalized environment, we will promote creative arts in Greater Cincinnati – as recognized and valued.

“Road King” and “Passing” represent two of my more emotional and colorful works to date. With Passing becoming the Image used as the Cover to my Novel, Norma Jean’s Sun; I could not be more excited about the extended view this award will offer.

An emotional response to my Fathers death

Norma Jean’s Sun – Video Review