About Faces in American History

• Discover the Artistic Journey of Grandpa Jerry

At 93 years young, Jerry has embarked on a remarkable journey as an artist and author, showcasing his creativity and resilience to the world. Despite being plagued by the medical consequences of radiation exposure as an atomic veteran and the loss of vision in one eye, Jerry has not let these obstacles hinder his passion for painting and writing.  With a collection of more than 500 paintings and 10 published books, Jerry's talent and dedication shine through in each piece of art and every word on the pages of his books. His work reflects a depth of emotion and a unique perspective that can only come from a lifetime of experiences and wisdom. Jerry's story is not just about his artistic accomplishments, but also his unwavering spirit and determination to pursue his passions later in life. Starting a new career at the age of 89 is a testament to his belief that it is never too late to follow your dreams and make a mark in the world. Through his site, Jerry shares his artwork and books, his life experiences, and the lessons he has learned along the way. Visitors to the site can delve into the "Who Is Grandpa Jerry?" and "Why Does He Paint" section to discover the man behind the art and writing, and to learn about his journey, motivation, and inspiration. Jerry's mission is to inspire others and to show that regardless of age or circumstance, it is possible to overcome challenges and create something beautiful. His passion for art and writing serves as a beacon of hope for those who may be facing their own obstacles, reminding them that creativity knows no bounds. Join us in celebrating the talent and resilience of Grandpa Jerry as we explore his artistic journey and the legacy he continues to build through his work. Let his story be a reminder that it is never too late to pursue your passions and leave a lasting impact on the world.

Who is Grandpa Jerry? 

A veteran of the Korean Conflict, and a Columbia University graduate, he spent forty years developing sophisticated airborne radar systems for the U.S. Navy and U.S. Air Force. After retiring as Grumman Melbourne Systems' Director of Engineering, he embarked on a second 25-year career as a sports photojournalist. Along the way, the father of three boys found time to write ten books and coach thousands of kids in football, baseball, and softball, as well as Special Olympic wheelchair tennis. He is recognized by many as youth sports' greatest ambassador. Four years ago, as therapy for chronic pain, he took up oil painting and used his skills as an author/artist to create his "...from my palette" series of picture books. In1995, Jerry received the Chamber of Commerce Local Hero Award and in 2022, Jerry received the Art of Giving Award from the First Coast Cultural Center of Forida. The award is given to an individual committed to sustaining arts and cultural programs within the Florida Beaches community.

Why Does He Paint and What Does He Paint?

After discovering painting was an effective therapy for his chronic pain, he took up the hobby in earnest––this despite vision in just one eye. In the four years since, he has completed over 500 paintings in four categories: 

• Kids and Other People, 

• Animals, 

• Scenes, 

• Cars, Planes, Boats, and Trains

His paintings populate his ...from my palette picture books––89 and Counting Am I Old Yet?, Faces In American History, The Music Makers, Who's Who in Grandpa's Zoo Volume I and II, and Painting My Pain Away

Faces in American History ... From My Palette by Jerry Norton offers a captivating journey through the annals of American history, spotlighting each president from George Washington to Joseph Biden. Norton’s insightful work provides a concise yet comprehensive narrative of each president’s tenure, accompanied by stunning portraits capturing their essence. With 45 individual portraits and 78 additional paintings providing historical context, Norton’s

book offers a unique perspective on American presidential history. From pivotal legislation to key events, each president’s administration is vividly brought to life, making it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding the evolution of American governance.

What sets this book apart is its accessibility and versatility. With its engaging prose and visually striking artwork, Faces in American History serves as an educational tool suitable for students from middle school to college. Moreover, its appeal extends beyond the classroom, making it a delightful read for history enthusiasts of all ages.

In summary, Jerry Norton’s Faces in American History ... From My Palette is more than just a collection of presidential portraits—it’s a journey through the corridors of power, offering insight, perspective, and a deeper understanding of the individuals who have shaped the course of American history.