A Central Coast artist well known for his vibrant, contemporary paintings has died, two weeks after suffering major injuries in a car crash.
John Landon passed away Wednesday morning. He was 68.
Landon owned the John Landon Gallery located on Morro Street in downtown San Luis Obispo. His artwork included traditional paintings and colorful contemporary artwork featuring Central Coast businesses and landmarks. His work was also featured prominently by the SLO Jazz Festival in posters and other promotional materials. He painted several murals locally, including one that can be seen on the side of the Shell Beach Post Office.
Landon’s son, Shawn, says many of Hollywood’s biggest stars own pieces of his father’s work. He even had a piece hanging in the White House during President George W. Bush’s administration.
Landon had lived on the Central Coast since 1981, according to his son, and had called Shell Beach home since 1991. He was well-known and loved in the community.
"He was a great artist and had a brilliant and scientific mind," said friend Michelle Waltz. "He had excellent skills in traditional art and loved doing it but he was mainly known for his contemporary art."
On Aug. 2, Landon was involved in a two-car crash as he was exiting Highway 101 southbound at Avila Beach Drive and was hospitalized.
Landon is survived by four children, seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
