Huntley Castner’s inspired pop portraits
by Elka Worner Local artist Huntley Castner describes his paintings as “essentially folk art, only with modern day folk heroes.” “I only paint people I think highly of,” he said of his vibrant portraits. His exhibit at Culture Brewing Company in Manhattan Beach features legends from the world of politics, sports, and entertainment, the Dalai Lama, Amy Winehouse, Martin Luther King, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Muhammad Ali, and Robert F. Kennedy. Also included in his personal pantheon are local residents Louise Wolf and attorney Robert Courtney. “Wolf has been a great inspiration, someone who has set a solid example of how to live a happy and meaningful life,” he said. Wolf, who attended college with Castner’s mother, is enjoying her moment in the spotlight. Castner painted her with a white bob, wearing a white, embroidered Mexican blouse. “I’m right next to Frank Sinatra, and my portrait is bigger than Mary Tyler Moore’s,” Wolf said. “Talk about being in good company.” Castner also honored Hermosa Beach attorney Robert Courtney, who he described as an inspirational friend, father and husband. Castner attended Mira Costa with Courtney’s son, Jake. “I’ve watched him the whole way through…
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