It's just part of the plot. I know, it was kind of sad...an artist dying for his creation. Remember, he was "drugging" himself with potions of speed (read "methamphetamine") and his system couldn't take it anymore.
SPOILER:
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His artwork was a portrait of Queen Ellisime of the Elves, reknowned for her goddess-like beauty. If you play through the second game (BG2) you actually get to meet her towards the endgame.
-Sazerac
P.S. Remember to retrieve the emeralds from his corpse for Ouibek the constable in Nashkel to receive the reward.
[ 10-17-2002, 01:36 PM: Message edited by: Sazerac ]