by Julia O’Reilly
For Martinez artist, illustrator, and author John Tullis, creativity has been a constant companion, one that has evolved from family inspiration to graphic design, from printing presses to fine art, and now to the pages of compelling noir fiction.
Tullis’ artistic story begins long before he was born. His great-grandfather, Hjalmer Ofverborg, was born in Sweden in 1859 and immigrated to the United States around 1900. Settling in Chicago, Ofverborg true gift was painting portraits and landscapes. More than a century later, his artwork continues to inspire future generations.
Three of Ofverborg’s original paintings remain in the Tullis family today. “I remember gazing at them and wishing I could be an artist,” Tullis recalls.
With encouragement from his parents, that childhood dream steadily became reality. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design from California State University, Long Beach, in 1972 and began working for a design studio in Los Angeles before relocating to the Bay Area in 1973.
In 1974, Tullis embarked on what would become a successful 40-year career in the printing industry. Although his profession centered on graphic design and visual communication, his passion for painting never disappeared.
Today, visitors to the Main Street Arts Gallery in downtown Martinez can enjoy Tullis’ paintings and illustrations. Yet painting is only part of his creative journey.
A lifelong admirer of classic detective stories and film noir, Tullis turned his imagination toward writing. In 2022, he published Ebony Bangs: A Richard Dake Noir, introducing readers to a gritty world of crime, mystery, and moral conflict.
Now comes the highly anticipated sequel, Ebony Skies, scheduled for release in 2026.
Set against the foggy streets of 1950s San Francisco, Ebony Skies plunges readers into a world where trust is fleeting and danger waits around every corner. Detective Richard Dake finds himself caught between organized crime, corruption, betrayal, and impossible choices after a daring robbery of the North Beach Syndicate goes terribly wrong.
Rich with suspense, vivid historical detail, and the unmistakable atmosphere of classic noir, Ebony Skies promises to keep readers turning pages. Tullis plans to complete the Richard Dake trilogy with Ebony Bones, expected to be released in 2027.
Whether standing before an easel or sitting behind a keyboard, John Tullis’remarkable journey reminds us that it’s never too late to embrace new chapters, pursue lifelong dreams, and inspire others through the power of art and storytelling.
Visitors can meet John Tullis and experience his artwork at the Main Street Arts Gallery, 613 Main Street where his paintings continue to reflect the same imagination and passion that have defined his lifelong creative journey.