John Cheek

One of the most accomplished singers of our time, John Cheek continually meets with high acclaim for his artistic productions. Original, vintage, pen and ink, "on-the-spot" illustration by George 'Georges' Krishizki. The hand drawn illustration has been signed by Cheek and additionally signed and dated and titled by Krishizki: "Georges / 1979 / John Cheek / Bass-Baritone."

Since his initial debut, Cheek appeared at the Metropolitan Opera in more than 360 performances; his roles include the title role in 'Le nozze di Figaro' (at Lincoln Center and on tour in Japan), Leporello in 'Don Giovanni,' Publio in 'La clemenza di Tito' and Don Alfonso in 'Cosi Fan Tutte,' as well as Colline in 'La Boheme' and Alvise in 'La Gioconda.' Mr. Cheek performed these roles with James Levine conducting.

George 'Georges' Krishizki (March 22, 1924 – December 20, 2001), Russian-Polish-American illustrator who came to the U.S. in 1949. While he earned acclaim for his renderings of the city’s architectural landmarks, it was his on-the-spot drawings of musicians in performance that attracted an especially appreciative audience. In a 1973 article published in conjunction with two simultaneous exhibitions, Georges explained the genesis of his long-running engagement with the concert hall: “I’ve always enjoyed going to concerts, and one day I decided it would be fun to combine my interests in music and art and make sketches of musicians during performances.”  Indeed, the most remarkable feature of Georges’ oeuvre, apart from the astounding range of performers who gladly expressed their approval and appreciation by signing, is the skill with which the drawings are accomplished.

This original pen and ink illustration, measuring approximately 9 x 12, on heavy-weight sketch paper, is in fine condition with some light overall toning. Its verso is blank and clean.