DAVID COLEMAN HICKMAN

I am Patty McGrath Jones and moved to Texas in 1981 my husband took a job offer here. David was my saving grace as a student of Northern Illinois University. He was so fantastic as an artist and a fantastic person. I transferred into NIU and it was a huge change for me. David gave me the strength to continue on in art. I was so worried coming from a small junior college. He taught me everything I know about drawing. He was instrumental in finding a way for me to fit into the school. He helped me with drawing etc. I called him when I came to Texas and he did call me back but the phone systems weren’t like they are today. What a top notch person he was and also an instructor! I graduated in 1967 .. my regret was not taking classes at U of H for a Masters degree. At the time I had 4 little ones at home. I did teach art in the Chicago area but did not continue. I am now a water colorist! I can say Mr Hickman you were my guiding light and I’ll never forget you!

All my thanks
Patty McGrath Jones. 1967
Ps I left a short legacy on your obituary a few years ago.

Even though I had commented on David's contribution to my artistic journey years ago, I find a dozen years later he is still very much part of my life. Attending Uof H pursuing a BFA, after a tour of duty in Vietnam, my wife and I were blessed with the news that twin boys would be joining us at the beginning of my Senior year. We both worked, one room apartment, one shared twelve year old car, a dog, kid's on the way...no way we were gonna' survive unless I dropped out college and got a "real Job". David was there for us, offering encouragement, a cup of coffee, sometime rearranging critique sessions, opening an empty studio space for me paint in to fit my schedule...I graduated in 1971. A couple of years later I reluctantly ended my painting dreams and did get a "real job" (family obligations), eventually enjoying a career as VP Store Planning/Visual Merchandising for a large retail company. Fast forward twenty-three years, I'm at a gallery reception in Houston and across the room is a guy wearing a neon yellow/lime green shirt and a purple sport coat...yep, it was Hickman. Apologetically I told him I had given up my former painting aspirations years ago to which he replied unapologetically that creative people are always artists and that he would not accept the premise that I was a "former artist". A few months later, after a half -dozen encouraging phone calls , numerous trips to Texas Art Supply, and resigning from my job I was definitely no longer a "former artist.

David opened up that elusive world I had once dreamed of with shows in New York, Chicago, Houston, thru out Texas, etc... I had come full circle". I proudly display one of David's serigraphs in my living room and am quick to point out to visiting admirers the love and respect I have for this wonderful man.

I just caught up with the wonderful Hickman family while reading "Truman" by David McCullough. Apparently David's grandfather andfather were associated with their neighbor Harry S. Truman in Blue River County, MO. I remember David's father mentioning Independence, Mo and Truman in a long ago discussion.

In 1957 at De Pauw U David suggested I live with his mother and father in Cleveland Heights while I attended Case Tech, since he and his sister were away at school.

It was a great 2/12 years I spent with his mother and father. Mrs. Hickman and I spent many afternoons watching soaps, when she wasn't playing the piano. She accompanied several clubs as they put on shows. Mr. Hickman was extremely bright as measured by the direction he provided to me for the difficult Operations Research problems for my Case class work. He would quickly provide a solution path to the common OR problems as optimum Inventory management, que line theory and salesman's best route to minimum time and maximum profit.

One holiday when David was home, I recall being in the attic helping him make picture frames for his large art canvases.

Dave had wonderful parents.

Just learned of David Hickman’s passing. He was a friend, neighbor, mentor. As a kid I aspired to be somewhat like him. I’d watch him painting in his studio, showed him my watercolors, listen to his comments, even helped hang his show at Ars Longa Gallery. He sort of stuck out his neck for me and got me into that first MFA program at U of H. He encouraged me to broaden my horizons so I moved to NYC, found a loft, a gallery, followed his example so to speak. It’s fifty plus years since I met David and I’m grateful to have known him. I’m sitting on the veranda of my studio in the Caribbean looking over the patterns of nature and the simplicity of life that reminds me of his early paintings I very much admired. It’s a long way from Rowan Lane and David made my own journey that much more interesting and certain. Thanks for the memories and showing me the way. Best wishes to his family. Thinking of you all today.

Dear Mr. Hickman, I am finally doing it. I am facing my fears about being an artist. I enrolled at Lesley University for my MFA, they are a tight knit community that lasts a life time. I am literally moving to Massachusetts within the next few weeks. I got a teaching position part-time and I plan on finally doing what you wanted me to do, show my work in galleries. I am scared, and I am excited too. You are with me as I do this, it was a great loss to me, your leaving, but you left a seed of courage and inspiration inside my heart and it is growing. thank you for being my mentor. I can still hear your encouraging words and see your genuine smile as I take these next daring steps. "Don't censor yourself, there are all kinds of artists and a place for them all." DCH

Hello, I've discoverd that one of my favorite paintings, (standing figure before floral patterns) was created by david. I'm sure he was a good man. I've had it 20 yrs alone. God bless

David was my drawing instructor at Northern Illinois University . He was so positive in his instruction. I thought I maybe should quit art altogether however he advised me not to do that. I learned a whole lot from him. This time was 1966-67

September 10, 2017

I just got the Internet on my home computer and finally have time to explore it. David had given me a poster of his painting, "Innergarden," for my 50th birthday. Because it is so beautiful, it hangs in my bedroom, where I see it every day, so I decided to look him up and see what he was doing. To my great shock and sadness, I discovered that he had died. Seeing his smiling face on this page makes me sadder still. In the 1980s and early '90s I was one of only 4 art historians in the Univ. of Houston Art Department. David was a colleague and friend, who was very supportive when it counted. As others have noted, he was "colorful" and fun, as well as being very serious about his art and his teaching. Although we didn't remain in contact after I left Houston, I have remembered him often as I looked at "Innergarden." He was a wonderful human being, and I know he will always be missed by many, including me.

To the Hickman Family,
I was saddened to read of David's passing. He was a fellow DePauw University graduate and a close friend. I introduced him to my uncle who hired him into the Art Department at Northern Illinois University. I have four pieces of his work--three floral silk screens, one pin-up painting.

I was thinking about him today in light of all the news out of Houston, and found his obituary. I hope you are out of harm's way and safe.

With heartfelt sympathy and condolences,
Richard Hackenberg
[email protected]

I named my daughter Violet because of him. The color reminds me life and art and being fearless. I am honored to have been his student.

David Hickman - what a profound life influence this kind, brilliant and thoughtful man had on me. I just heard of his death.

David introduced me to my creative self and a much more authentic me because he exuded creativity and authenticity constantly.

I stayed in New Ulm in his little side apartment while he taught me how to create and often shared dinners/lunch with he and Gizelle. I think I was the best man at their wedding but memory does not serve well.

A bright light has gone out in this world yet remains bright in so many areas of my life. Thank you David for sharing yourself with me. It's lasted.

My condolences to family and friends.

Gregory Hood

To his daughter Sarah that I only met at David's Funeral. It was a very large turnout of students and friends paying tribute to a man well liked. I had always heard that from Gigi which I had known since 1979. I have just recently found out that she passed away in 2012. I suppose it must have been very lonely after David's passing for her. Frank Monacelli 713-825-1949.

i love you dad.

I taught with you in the UofH Art Department between your arrival in 1969 and my departure in 1972. I didn't know about your passing (4 years ago today!)until tonight (8/23) when I attended a concert by your daughter Sara at the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe in Galveston. I had no idea you were her father until it came out in conversation with her after the show, and of course she got choked up because of the anniversary date that it is. She is a truly amazing singer, and I remember your art as quite amazing and wonderful also! It was good to have known you at least for awhile in those days so long ago.

David Hickman...what a man, and did he enjoy life...you bet he did!
After serving in the Marines in vietnam i enrolled at UofH in 1968 and he quickly became my friend, teacher, and mentor. His laughter, guidance, and patience guided me on my road to pursue a career in the arts that would continue to this day. His love of color was evident in his beautiful paintings and serigraphy as well as in his wardrobe, lol...I readily copied his style and technique, though not well. We students loved professor Hickman and all are better artist because of his creative efforts and dedication...he is missed.

I just found out about Mr.Hickman's passing. I was googling him to get in touch and let him know how much he had influenced me to become a painter. I had the pleasure of living next door to him in the Heights area in Houston. He was my inspiration to pick up a paint brush and begin. I am now a full-time artist. Last year when I set up my website, I named it after him: INSPIRED BY DAVID. It was my intention to get in touch with him sooner to let him know how much he changed my life. I regret not doing so.
Where ever you are now Mr. Hickman, I know that you are painting and sharing your passion for art with those who surround you.
Thank you dear man.
Cristina Surplus @ CristinaSurplus.com

Rest in peace, sir. I'd heard of your passing perhaps a year ago, but it was only recently in musing that I wrote something more about your influence on me.

http://jalachan.wordpress.com/2012/01/25/what-it-is-to-be-an-artist-a-moment-of-thanks/

Thank you. Your life was rich and your legacy, bright.

I studied under Professor Hickman as an undergraduate. I studied Color 1 and 2 from him and then did an Independent Study with him my last semester, (I went on to receive my MFA from Rutgers University).
He gave us students all he had which was more than most would even bother to share and then when I worked him individually he gave me even more. I used to get excited because he sparked something in me- I will always cherish his words, "How did you ever come up with that color combination, I would have never even thought of that", Or "How dare you have so much fun John"!
I am teaching Art at Coastal Carolina University in South Carolina and would not be the teacher I am had I not been tutored under Prof. Hickman. I remember the the joy that emanated from him, his little "Woo-Hoo" and the little jigs he would do. The smell of Acrylic paint and fresh coffee when you entered his classroom with some instrumental Broadway tunes setting the mood; I gave him a purple coffee pot and purple mug. He invited me to his studio and Art Centre out in New Ulm, (I cannot believe the drive he used to make to the university, that is love). Last week I exhibited the 3 paintings he commanded "How dare you have so much fun John" and all 3 paintings sold opening night.
Some of my assignments are mutations of ones he gave us so his teaching lives on, the love of color he shared with me lives on in my work. After finding out of his passing all I could think was he has already started painting heaven "PURPLE"!
You will never be forgotten for you are a part of me,
John Schiro

i love you my honey bunny. and i miss you so.
my bestfriend, your are my everything. words
can not explain how much you mean to me.
gizelle hickman - TLF my yummy. TLF

My heart ached with sadness today after I found out he had passed away. Mr. Hickman was my professor in 2008 when I took his color and illustration class at the University of Houston. I remembered when I came to my class the first day, I saw Mr. Hickman wearing that bold purple shirt and colorful tie to go with it. I said to myself, "Oh, this class is going to be fun" and sure enough it was the best time I'd ever had. He taught so much in so little time, from how to combine colors to make a color that you don't have to expressing yourself through illustration. I always looked forward to his critizism when the class had assignments because he really made you want to do your best. He was my teacher, friend and inspiration. I will always remember his funny expressions and smile and always carrying around his purple cup filled with coffee. To the Hickman family, I share your sorrow with your loss and I will keep you in my prayers. May we all see you again one day, until then rest in peace Mr. Hickman.

Today I just found out that I have lost my great professor Hickman, mentor and a wonderful friend!; David, I just want to thank you for being always so suportive of my art in all of this years. Thank you also for being there for me, when I needed an advice or I was down and wanted to give up on my art. Because of your inspiration and support is the reason that I am an artist today, I am going to miss you. It will never be another teacher like you!! It was a honor to have knowning you.
Alexandra

Dear Professor Hickman, if only I had to the opportunity to tell you how close to my heart your presence was in my life. You were my mentor and more importantly, my friend. The inspiration and kindness you showed me will always be invaluable. I will never forget you. Also Mrs. Hickman, thank you for all your hospitality and generosity. Visits to David's studio were that much more great with your presence; I am thankful to have witnessed the love between you two.

David was my professor, mentor, and friend. David was an amazing instructor. His outlook and guidance changed the way I looked at art and life. It was an honor to have known and shared ideas with him. I'll forever associate the color purple with David.

David Hickman, self-lessly, SINGLE-handedly provided me with ALL of my art classes toward my certification to teach art !!! In the late 1980's when the UH art department did not offer the required classes at times conducive to someone like me, a working professional, David Hickman came to my rescue! 18 credit hours, ALL "Special Problems" courses. Today I teach art because of him! Needless to say I am blessed to have sooo many precious hours of his instruction. Amazing man, Christian, and human being! Lisa A. Brown (Pearland, TX) ps. I became I big Sara Hickman fan along the journey!

Dave was one of the very best teachers I have ever learned from. He inspired art and life at every level. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family.

Dear Sara and Jennifer...your loss reminds me of my own and brings back memories of being together when we were young. Your father was a very important friend to my dad for close to forty years and we have heard about his life and yours with much love, pride, and caring over the years from our dad. They will both continue to inspire others and touch many lives with their amazing art. The world will greatly miss your father's talent.

Sara & Jennifer ... I have so many fun memories of the Hickman/McDermott dinners we shared as kids! Over the years my dad relayed so many wonderful stories about the two of them working together! Your dad was a true talent and touched so many young artists lives. I am so sad for your loss and have you in my thoughts and prayers.

Sara and Jennifer ... I have many fond memories of the Hickman/McDermott dinner nights we shared as kids! Over the years my dad always relayed wonderful stories about the two of them working together. I know that your dad touched so many young artists lives! I am so sad for your loss and have you in my prayers.

What a colorist! Both inside and out.
(A former student and friend)

i miss my beloved husband. he was my rock, my life, my everything.. i miss his wonderful voice, handsome(really beautiful) face, his kisses and his strong arms around me. i have not stopped crying since your passing. i was truly blessed to be your wife and what an honor it was. your muse, your minnie and girlie girl. i love you.

I am honored to have known him as my mentor and instructor. He helped me believe in my dreams and set me on my path to making them a reality. He will forever be a part of hope and inspiration in my life.

Sara, I first met your Dad at the Mucky Duck when this bald man with the LOUDEST bright orange long sleeve shirt sat down at the table next to mine. We noticed his name on his table card and asked him if he was related to you. He said, well I guess so - I am her Father. He was very friendly to me and my friends and it was very obvious that he was very proud of you.

Our sympathy to the family, particularly Sara and Jenny.
David was a former neighbor and a colleague of my late husband. He was a man of great talent and will be missed.

My condolences to the family. May God grant you peace. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Sincerely,

We are sad to have to say good-bye to our cousin, David Hickman.He was a husband to Gizelle, a father to two daughters, Sara Hickman and Jenny Hickman, a grandfather to two granddaughters and one grandson, brother to Alana Alexander, and cousin to many more. We all have good memories of times spent together at family celebrations and summer visits. We send our love and condolences to each of you. David was a talented and dedicated artist and teacher. He will be missed. With love, Steve and Barbara Roberts

Gretchen has said it all so perfectly - there is little to add except that i will never forget the face of my 10 year old son when david came up to him at an art show for children and asked him if he could buy his painting. then, years later, when helping david with an art show in new ulm, he took us into his kitchen and my son's painting was framed and hung just behind david's kitchen sink and cory said "i did that painting!"david didn't recall my son and my son didn't remember david but that was such a special moment. david told cory that he hoped he was still doing his art and though 6 years had passed, cory told him that yes, he was.

i know many others whose lives he touched through his art, through his kindness and his mentorship.

this world has indeed lost a precious soul.

So sorry to hear about your father. You and your family are in our prayers. God bless you all.

We were so sorry to hear about the passing. We know he meant a great deal to Sara and others. We are keeping all of you in our prayers.

I'm sorry about you father's passing. He seemed like an interesting man. I love you Sara.

May God continue to bless the family of David, and know that your memories will bring you comfort.

David Hickman was an extraordinary individual who was genuinely kind, caring, inquisitive, inspiring, enthusiastic and energetic; he had a thirst for life and he made efforts to live it to the fullest which included being devoted to family, friends, students,community and church. David's devotion and contributions to The University of Houston have been endless and invaluable! The MFA program would not exist were it not for David. David Hickman was the single most influential artist and educator that I have ever had the honor and pleasure to work with. I would tease David that he was in fact the "God of Color" as his artistic passion for and use of color especially in watercolor and acrylic works was unmatched by any other artist; his colors dance across the surfaces of his works illuminating our imaginations and peaking our curiosities and fantasies. May the unique flowers of our world ever remind us of the beautiful man that David Hickman was. Thank you David for making your mark in life and for accepting so many people into your life...we love you and miss you dearly! My you rest in peace in your glorious moonlit garden beyond the confines of our world. Thank you for making my life a more colorful place to be through your wisdom, friendship, teachings and devotion to being an all round nice guy!