Presidential Award-Winning Painter John Bramblitt
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DENTON (CBS11) — John Bramblitt is a blind painter from Denton. But he is now known all over the world.
Bramblitt lost his eyesight in 2001 from complications associated with epilepsy. At first, he fell into a deep depression, concerned he would no longer be able to take care of himself.
Then he learned he could use it to his advantage by painting what he feels.
"It's incredible what art can do for you," Bramblitt said. "Because it does force you to focus on the positives, on the good things."
Bramblitt is able to feel his way around vibrant oil paintings on canvas, because he adds texture to each color of paint he uses. Red paint is thicker than yellow. Green is smoother than blue.
He says there's something about painting every single day that gives his life meaning.
"I'm still me, you know," Bramblitt said. "I'm still John. There's nothing wrong with me."
Bramblitt is no stranger to the spotlight. He was awarded three U.S. presidential awards in 2005, 2006 and 2007 for his creation of a series of free workshops designed to bring art to people and neighborhoods that don't typically have access to art instruction.
"You don't need eyesight to appreciate art," Bramblitt said. "And you don't need it to create art, either."
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