The Art of Memory: David Holt's Celebrity Obituary Portraits
- Project Onward Staff
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
At Project Onward, we’re proud to highlight the work of artists who create with passion, purpose, and perspective. This month, we celebrate David A. Holt, a long-time studio artist whose bold memorial portraits and pop culture tributes have created a vibrant and heartfelt legacy within our community.
Honoring Memory Through Obituary Art
David A. Holt (b. 1984) joined Project Onward in 2006 and has since developed a powerful and deeply personal body of work centered on celebrity culture, memory, and loss. After an early introduction to art through Gallery 37 and Harold Washington College, David discovered the healing power of creative expression.
His artistic journey took a transformative turn in 2009, following the passing of his beloved grandmother, then his mother in 2013. Prior to this his father passed away in 2003. What began as a way to process grief evolved into a unique and ongoing series of “memorial portraits” which are works that honor the lives and legacies of public figures who have left a mark on the world. Holt works quickly and intuitively, often completing pieces the day he learns of a celebrity’s passing. “Deep inside, I was broken-hearted trying to live through it,” he shares, “and art helped me process the grief.”
A Style All His Own
Working primarily with colored pencil, pastel, and acrylic paint, David creates portraits that are immediate, honest, and emotionally resonant. His work is self-directed and “in-depth,” reflecting a commitment to stories and symbols that connect people. “I like to make things people can relate to,” he says.
While his subject matter ranges from musicians to film stars to cultural icons, Holt is selective and intentional. He chooses to focus on those who have made a positive impact, figures who uplift, inspire, or unify. “No negative music,” he emphasizes. “Just artists that influence a lot of people.”
One of David’s favorite portraits is of Mama Cass, whose legacy, similar to many others, he sees as misunderstood and worth remembering. “I realized that Mama Cass would be a perfect fit for what I like to honor.”
Community, Connection, and the “Virgo-Cancer Club”
Beyond his obituary portraiture, Holt’s work reflects a larger vision of community and connection. He is the founder of a self-made “Virgo-Cancer Club,” a syndicate of celebrities, friends, and family members who share these astrological signs. For David, astrology is another tool for forming meaningful connections and a lens through which to group and celebrate the people who matter most.
Whether working on portraits, holiday-themed cards (often featuring lyrics from Barry White or One Direction), or simply bringing music into the studio, David’s energy is contagious. “I bring the vibes,” he says. “Music and energy and playing music, it’s all part of the day.”
Living with Purpose
Outside the studio, David is an active participant in Special Olympics programming, competing in softball, basketball, and weightlifting. He also advocates for the autism community, recently sharing his story in the Chicago Sun-Times.
When asked what he wants people to take away from his work, David’s answer is simple but powerful:
“I want people to relate it to others, to keep relevant, and inspire others to remember the people who have passed away.”
Through his art, David A. Holt reminds us that every life matters, every memory is worth honoring, and that even in loss and chaos, we can find connection, celebration, positivity and love.