The “Man in Black” left us on September 12, 2003.

Three days before what would’ve been Johnny Cash’s 78th birthday, the album “American VI: Ain’t No Grave” was posthumously released.

The title track recording was discovered after Cash’s death—it was his last studio recording. This track inspired a global collective art project called, “The Johnny Cash project: A ‘Living Portrait’of the Man in Black.” 

Individuals from all over the world have the opportunity to submit sketches and drawings—their own artistic renditions—which celebrate and commemorate Mr. Cash.

Per The Johnny Cash Project’s website:

“Strung together and played in sequence over the song, the portraits will create a moving, ever evolving homage to this beloved musical icon…The album and its title track deal heavily with themes of mortality, resurrection, and everlasting life…Through the love and contributions of the people around the world that Johnny has touched so deeply, he appears once again before us.

The Johnny Cash Project is a visual testament to how the Man in Black lives on—not just through his vast musical legacy, but in the hearts and minds of all of us around the world he has touched with his talent, his passion and his indomitable spirit.”

Artists are given a “guide image” to follow, so anyone can participate, even if one is not a master artist or illustrator. The images, collated together, create the music video here:

Although this unique video project has been in existence for several years now, I’ve only recently discovered it and feel inspired to share this loving tribute to the “Man in Black”—in celebration of his birthday—in the hopes that other fans who have not yet seen it can also enjoy and appreciate this extraordinary treasure.

For more info, including how you can contribute, visit the project’s website or view the documentary:

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Relephant:

Celebrating Johnny Cash & his Love for June.

Why Johnny Cash wore black.

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Author: Yoli Ramazzina

Photo: Screenshot