WASHINGTON — Well-known D.C. photographer, Joe Shymanski's art lives on at the Downtown Holiday Market.
Shymanski’s business partner and good friend, Alton McDougle said it’s bittersweet. He's known Shymanski for over two decades.
Family reported Shymanski missing on September 6. Later that same day, police arrested 48-year-old Brandon Ross Holbrook. Shymanski's remains were found near a creek, not far from Holbrook's home. Detectives say he was shot, burned and decapitated by his alleged killer.
Holdbrook was formally charged with Shymanski’s murder earlier this week. McDougle said the loss has been challenging.
“Knowing that there’s good coming out of the situation is a positive thing and it makes me want to move on. It brings a light to a dark situation,” McDougle, said.
Shymanski is well known for combining small Star Wars Lego figures to represent larger social issues.
“The goldish is his favorite. Right along with the Darth Vader in front of the capitol because that was the first one he ever took.” McDougle said.
McDougle is continuing his Lego legacy. He’s created a scholarship to give students a chance to pursue their dreams in photography or media.
“When I look at his photos, it brings me back to the times we challenged each other to see if we can compete to beat one another as far as the photos we took,” McDougle said.
He’s hoping his art will continue inspiring people.
“I love to see people walk up. You don’t even have to buy anything. If it makes you smile. That’s important." McDougle said.
Shymanski’s artwork will be here every day from 12-8, until Christmas Eve. His alleged killer, Brandon Holbrook is due back in court on Dec. 4.
Joe Shymanski's ex-wife had a 'romantic' relationship with his accused killer, police say.