What motivates you to create?

     I believe God put this spark in me to put down what I see; to share my vision with others. I would also have to put my wife and family as a major source of motivation.

Does art help you in other areas of your life?

     Keeps me sane

How has your style changed over time?

     I would hope it has improved, both in substance and design.

How do you stay inspired and motivated to create new art?

     I wake up and see the world

How did you become interested in your artwork style?

     I always felt the need to draw/paint for as long as I can remember. I began taking college courses in art after spending 4 years in the Air Force. The subtlety of transparent watercolor piqued my interest, the development of intense color through multiple layers that brings a luminosity to the piece captured my spirit. I later applied the same techniques to oils as I studied the processes of the old masters. It helped to have a professor who required us to start from scratch using old-world techniques such as making our own gesso from rabbit -skin glue. Thankfully we weren’t required to mix our own paints from powdered pigment, linseed oil, and glass mortars (though it was offered).

Are you self-taught or did you take classes?

     I was mostly self taught in my early years, but later went to college in Illinois. It opened my eyes, and talent, to what was possible. I realized that I was sorely deficient in my skill level.

Do you work in multiple mediums? What is your favorite?

     I mainly work in transparent watercolor, but do produce work in oils, graphite, and occasionally colored pencil. For a period of time I used pen and ink as my primary focus.

How long have you been working in your craft?

     Over 50 years, with the last 45 as a professional. I started out doing freelance illustrations/logos for local businesses and moved into creating slates for the local TV station. I also sat outside the Air Force base and did graphite portraits for anyone that would stop by. Later I became a technical illustrator for the Air Force and then a designer and art director for NASA.

What inspires you to create?

     Just about anything. A plant, building, still life setup, or anything else that catches my eye.

Do you create every day?

     I try and get something done every day.

What is your favorite thing to create?

     I would say that watercolor still lives currently top the list.

What is your favorite part of creating?

     I would have to say getting the painting back from the framer and seeing that finished piece.

When is your favorite time of day to create?

     Now that I retired, I think morning.