Becoming An Artist
I didn’t go to art school.
In fact, I didn’t even pick up a paintbrush until I was 30, and already building a career as a computer programmer.
But… it was something I always wanted to try.
As a gift to myself on my 30th birthday, I bought a simple oil painting set, and got busy.
The first painting was terrible.
The second painting was terrible.
The third painting was terrible.
And so on… until at a certain point they started becoming a little less terrible than the ones before. By that point, I was hooked.
For the first few years, I painted mostly landscapes. I painted them outside, on location, regardless of the weather. You have to work fast, because the light changes rapidly. I still think that’s the best way for a painter to hone their ability to see clearly and accurately.
Anyway…
One February morning, I got up about two hours before I had to leave for work. At the time, I lived in downtown Boston, about a block from the Charles River Esplanade – that’s the park where the Boston Pops plays its annual Fourth of July concert.
I wanted to go down to the Esplanade so I could paint the ice-covered river and one of the bridges that crosses it.
Oil on canvas, 18×24 inches / 45×60 cm
It was cold.
Brutally, bitterly cold.
So cold that the oil paint was freezing onto the palette, and I could hardly move my fingers to control the brushes.
But I kept going…
After about an hour of this, I had a realization of sorts: When pursuing their hobbies, most people don’t subject themselves to this kind of treatment. Painting was much more than just a simple hobby to me.
It was a passion – a meaning.
That understanding changed the way I looked at painting, and I started to become more serious about it. I also began to wonder if it might eventually become a career.
At that point, I sought out formal training. Not for long – about a year – but with an exceptional teacher, and I learned as much as I possibly could.
During that year of study, I began to move my focus from landscape to still life. I was – and still am – fascinated by the range and variety of possibilities that still life offers. Entire worlds can be created – the only limit is the artist’s imagination.
I also began researching some of the traditional, centuries-old techniques that I use to create my paintings.
Several years after that February morning, I left my career in technology and became a full-artist.
I have never looked back.
Patreon A deeper look into my studio
If you’ve enjoyed being part of my artistic journey so far, I’d love to invite you to explore it more deeply through my Patreon page. For those who may not know, Patreon is a platform where creators like myself can connect more closely with supporters and offer exclusive content.
As a patron, you’ll get a closer look into my creative process, early access to new works, and insights into the techniques and inspiration that shape my paintings. It’s a space for us to dive deeper into conversations about art, exchange ideas, and build a vibrant community of fellow art enthusiasts who share this passion.
By joining me on Patreon, you’re not just supporting my work—you’re becoming part of an ongoing creative journey we can experience together. I’d love for you to visit my Patreon page, learn more, and consider becoming a part of this next chapter.
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