Rev. Charles H. Lett, Sr.
About the Artist
This fabric portrait was created by Lisha K. Lett, affectionately known as "Queen Lisha" by her husband, Gary Lett. Elder Artist and Secretary of Lett's Do Art, Inc., Lisha is the proud soulmate of Gary for 46 years of marriage. Together they have two dynamic sons—Vincent, the musician, and Victor, the visual artist—and eight vibrant, intelligent, talented, and loving grandchildren.
Taking the Improvisational fabric portraiture art class with Gary was a life-changing experience for Lisha. Although she and Gary had made a fabric portrait of her mother before this class, she never considered herself an artist. When people asked if she was an artist, she always replied, "No!" But now her response is "Yes!" She's created two fabric portrait artworks and exhibited them publicly, along with Gary's and Victor's art.
Her work was featured in February 2023 at the African American Advisory Alliance (4A's) in Pomona, California, and in February 2024 at the Ontario International Airport Administration office. The 4A's show, titled "It's a Lett Art Thang," was curated by Gary with their son Victor as the headliner. At the show, Lisha was interviewed for the University of La Verne College newspaper, explaining her art process.
About the Subject
Rev. Charles H. Lett, Sr. was Gary Lett's father, a man whose legacy lives on through this powerful textile portrait. As a reverend, he represented faith, family values, and the spiritual foundation that continues to influence the Lett family's artistic and community work. This portrait serves as both a tribute to family heritage and a celebration of the strength and wisdom passed down through generations.
About the Artwork
This masterful fabric portrait of Rev. Charles H. Lett, Sr. represents Lisha's creative breakthrough. The class, held at The African American Museum of Beginnings (TAAMB) from December 2022 through November 2023, was where her creativity reached a higher level. She is thrilled to now be considered a budding fine artist.
It was a tremendous honor for Lisha to have her artwork in the same art show as her husband Gary and son Victor. Having her husband and soulmate as her class instructor was incredible, though she intentionally tried not to be the teacher's pet, willingly sharing him with the other students. She is so proud of her finished product—a masterful work of art honoring her father-in-law and preserving his legacy through fabric and thread.