Artist Richard Menger's folk- art portraits are based not only on the faces and features of cultural icons but also on how Mr. Menger views them personally.

Working in a style reminiscent of the late Howard Finster, Mr. Menger renders pop culture personalities on salvaged pieces of wood. Most are musicians -- Joe Strummer, Johnny Cash and Elvis Costello have all gotten the Menger treatment -- although occasionally a nonmusician such as stuntman Evel Knievel will sneak in.

"When I was young, every little kid wanted to be Evel Knievel," he said. "He's incredible because he's a guy that probably couldn't exist today. I mean, he was responsible for so many kids getting hurt, so many injuries -- 100 of which were my own."

A guitar player himself, Mr. Menger said he is most drawn to musical subjects. Often, the piece of wood suggests what personality will fit, but it takes time before he begins to paint.

He will often immerse himself in a subject's work, watching footage and listening to music incessantly as a way of tapping into the subject's personality, as well as his own feelings about the person. He said he has discovered a commonality in each portrait.

"They are all people who really believe in what they are doing," he said.

"I'm not a religious person but I am attracted to people who have absolute faith, who truly believe in what they do."

His style is in many ways like his subjects. Although there are cracks and crevasses, the complete picture is affecting.

"This is all wood I've found on the side of the road," he said. "And it isn't perfect. It might be a little warped. But really, I don't want perfect. This is much more interesting."