Fueled in part by the rich melodies of the Moody Blues and psychedelic techno tunes of Sky Cries Mary, Kent artist Richard Jahn breathes life into his paintings by tapping into a deep source of creativity that sets him apart from fellow firefighters.

About two dozen of Jahn’s paintings, in an exhibit called “Places I’ve Been,” will be on display May 1 to June 5 at Pogacha of Issaquah, 120 NW Gilman Blvd. There will be an artist’s reception during happy hour at the restaurant on May 15 from 3:30- 7 p.m. The show will move to Pogacha of Bellevue, 119 106th Ave NE, on June 5 and will run through July 10.

While Jahn, 57, always considered himself an artist and began painting when he attended Kentridge High School, he did not show his work publicly until about 20 years ago. Jahn’s work is popular throughout Renton. His patrons include Renton City Council members and other local leaders. He is a Renton firefighter.

“I’m proud of the people who buy my art,” said Jahn, who added that he finds it rewarding to have his artwork on display in the offices and homes of such well-respected members of the community.

Jahn’s paintings pop with color and energy. Many are dreamy, multihued depictions of Renton parks, cityscapes and neighboring rivers, beaches and mountain scenes. Still others are crackling abstracts with blazing forms and searing lines.

Jahn mostly works in oil on canvas and is inspired by a variety of sources, including certain types of rock music.

“They really move me and make me feel like I want to be creative,” Jahn said. He cites the Moody Blues and Sky Cries Mary as two bands that are particularly inspirational. Jahn is also inspired by Dutch painters of long ago and names Flemish renaissance painter Peter Brueghel as his favorite.

For more information about the exhibit and Pogacha Restaurants, call 425-392-5550 or visit the web site at www.pogacha.com

For more information about the artist, visit Jahn’s Web site at http://www.richardjahn.com.