Sally Angelle

sally.angelle@techetoday.com

Cecilia – During his high school days at Cecilia High School Raymond “Butch” LaGrange, a quiet, shy guy, picked up a #2 pencil and began creating beautiful drawings.

A self-taught artist and a budding musician, LaGrange says “If I can look at it I can draw it.” Same with music – if he hears it he can play it. His current work in progress incorporates his love for Led Zeppelin and rock n roll.

On the wall of his music room is the freehand drawing of a Led Zeppelin album cover.

Looking around his music/studio room you notice an old horse skull with drawings on it, Native American pictures/scenes all with hidden treasures within the art.

With a big smile he says “Each drawing has a part of me in them.” His pen name and signature “Cool” is usually hidden somewhere in the artwork. For someone who doesn’t really say much with words he sure does express himself through his art.

When his friend Steve Durio was killed in a motorcycle accident, LaGrange drew a portrait of him for his mother. A treasured gift for a grieving mother.

LaGrange gives away his drawings to friends, his way of “giving back” for the friendship and good times shared. He never turns down a request for one of his pieces of art to auction at benefits.

For the past 31 years he has earned a living as a crane-operator. But he doesn’t miss the opportunity to travel throughout the United States, accompanied by Maude his wife of 23 years. They enjoy visiting natures beautiful landmarks.