Jeff is a dedicated illustrator and watercolorist based in Cleveland, Ohio, with a lifelong passion for the arts. After receiving traditional training, he embraced the digital revolution in the late 1990s, immersing himself in the world of computer-generated art. However, he soon discovered that while digital art provided a viable career, it lacked the fulfillment of working with tangible materials. This realization led him back to his roots in painting.
To refine his skills, Jeff took lessons from esteemed Cleveland illustrator Bob Moyer, who guided him on the subtleties of watercolor techniques, emphasizing the importance of working with the medium and allowing the paint to communicate in its own way. Inspired by this mentorship, Jeff ventured into plein air painting—capturing the beauty of Cleveland's landscape on location. He finds joy in the challenge of distilling the sensory richness of his surroundings onto paper, transforming each painting into a unique time capsule linked to the artistic traditions of the past.
A graduate of the Cooper School of Art, Jeff is also a proud member of the Ohio Watercolor Society. In recent years, he has focused on urban plein air painting in Cleveland, many of which are available for purchase. Interested buyers are encouraged to reach out to him directly at jeff@suntala.com for inquiries regarding available works.
As of 2021, Jeff has been creating and offering a Cleveland Plein Air Watercolor calendar, which is released annually in mid-October.
Exhibitions and Awards:
Louisiana Watercolor Society
2020: 50th Anniversary International Exhibition – "Suspicious Mind"
2021: 51st Anniversary International Exhibition – "Rigged System"
Ohio Watercolor Society
2022: Award of Distinction – "Three Part Harmony"
2021: Award of Excellence – "Rigged System"
2020: "Here’s the Deal"
2019: Bronze Medal – "Just Hangin’"
Exhibited in various locations including Denver’s 16th St Mall and Cleveland’s W 3rd Street
2014: Berea Arts Fest – Best of Show
Jeff is deeply grateful to Bob Moyer, his mentor and a Cleveland illustration legend, who instilled in him a love for watercolor. Bob, who passed away at the age of 92, was a vibrant force in the Cleveland art community until the end of his journey. Jeff hopes that his work not only reflects his love for Cleveland but also honors the artistic legacy of those who came before him.
