Portrait of Samuel and Ida Fisher: Honoring the Parents Who Began Earl Dewey Fisher's Story
Jul 08, 2026
Every family history begins with the people who came before us. For Episode 2 of The Biography of Earl Dewey Fisher illustrated audiobook series, I wanted to honor the two individuals whose lives laid the foundation for everything that follows—Samuel Fisher and Ida Fisher.
Portrait of Samuel and Ida Fisher is a traditional mixed-media portrait inspired by historical family photographs and Earl Dewey Fisher's own recollections. Through this illustration, I sought to preserve not only their likenesses but also the rural environment that shaped their early life together. The peaceful Kansas landscape, complete with a farmhouse, windmill, fencing, and open fields, provides a glimpse into the world where Earl spent the first years of his life.
Created using mechanical pencil, kneaded eraser, colored pencil, fine liner pen, India ink pen, and acrylic paint pen, this artwork continues my goal of pairing traditional illustration with historical storytelling. Every portrait in this series is designed to help bring Earl's memories to life while preserving his family's legacy for future generations.
The Story Behind Episode 2
In this chapter of Earl Dewey Fisher's biography, Earl reflects on his parents' early lives before his own birth.
Born and raised in Iowa, Samuel and Ida Fisher came from respected families and even operated a grocery store for a time. After a doctor recommended that Ida move to a warmer climate for her health, they relocated to Kansas, where they established their home and began the chapter of life that would eventually lead to Earl's birth on May 14, 1898, near Grantville, Kansas.
Although Earl admitted he knew little about their earlier years because he was too young to understand many of their stories, those brief memories provide an important glimpse into the family's beginnings.
Watch the Artwork Come to Life
Watch the complete speed drawing while listening to the audiobook narration from Episode 2:
Shop the Artwork
Open Edition Prints
Bring this historical portrait into your home with museum-quality open edition prints.
Collect Matching Products
Celebrate this artwork with a variety of keepsakes inspired by The Biography of Earl Dewey Fisher series.
Hardcover Journal
Perfect for genealogy notes, journaling, or preserving your own family history.
Woven Blanket
A cozy heirloom-inspired blanket featuring the portrait woven directly into the fabric.
Metal Bookmark
Carry a reminder of family heritage wherever your reading takes you.
11 oz Ceramic Mug
Enjoy your favorite drink while celebrating a meaningful family story.
Holographic Die-Cut Sticker
Decorate your laptop, journal, or water bottle with a shimmering version of the artwork.
Playing Cards
A unique custom deck that combines classic entertainment with historical artwork.
Jigsaw Puzzle (110, 252, 520 & 1014 Pieces)
Piece together the Fisher family's story one puzzle piece at a time.
Cork Coaster
Protect your furniture while displaying a timeless historical portrait.
LED Wireless Charging Gaming Mouse Pad
Bring traditional artwork and modern technology together in your workspace.
Neck Tie
Wear a piece of family history at church, reunions, conferences, or special occasions.
Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker
Take the artwork—and the audiobook—with you wherever life takes you.
Preserving Family Stories Through Art
One of the greatest privileges of creating The Biography of Earl Dewey Fisher series has been the opportunity to preserve real family memories through traditional artwork. Each illustration transforms written history into a visual experience, helping future generations connect with the people and places that shaped their family's story.
Portrait of Samuel and Ida Fisher represents more than a historical portrait—it is a tribute to the parents whose decisions, sacrifices, and faith helped shape the life of Earl Dewey Fisher and the generations that followed.
Thank you for following this journey. I hope this artwork inspires you to preserve your own family's history and celebrate the stories that deserve to be remembered.
Artist: Justyn Simon
Series: The Biography of Earl Dewey Fisher
Episode: 2 — Backstory of Samuel and Ida Fisher
