A native of the Chicago area and a carpenter by trade, I've recently returned to my early passion for oil painting. After being away from painting for nearly thirty years, I now find oil painting and art in general, the most enjoyable pursuit, comparatively, to my many other interests. For me, subject matter is the most important aspect of a painting. So I may create art that is compelling for myself and the viewer, it has to speak to me. I am for the most part a self taught artist. Having taken only a group painting and drawing class for a brief time in my...more