Image 1: Java Lewis, 66, takes a break from painting a sign at Parnell Tires & Wash  on 4th Ave. N. in Birmingham’s Smithfield neighborhood.  Lewis is known locally as Mr. Painterman and for several decades lived on the streets, selling his artwork and taking sign-painting commissions. With help from a local banker and group of local supporters, Lewis published a book of his work and began living in his own home in 2010.


+++++