How I got here...

I'm what you call a "Self-taught Artist".

I've been drawing since grade school, and was always doodling in my notebooks at the back of class. I got into painting in high school and through college, but it was always a hobby. I took about 12 years off from my early twenties into thirties. In that time I did not do any painting or drawing or anything really creative. 

Around 2003-2004, I started up again with acrylics, then into oils. I gained my confidence back from those two mediums after being away for over 10 years.

Late 2009, I became interested in pastels and started reading, watching videos, visiting pastel forums...etc.

That led me to oil pastels.  Since I lived in an apartment with carpeting at the time, I needed something less messy. That's where oil pastels became attractive. As I got further into the medium and upgrading to professional brands, I really fell in love with oil pastels. The immediacy of the medium fits my approach and style perfectly. 

Since 2017 I have been laser-focused on mastery of oil pastels and have produced hundreds of finished oil pastel paintings. Consistency, dedication, and a strong drive to do my best keeps me going. That and because I absolutely love what I do. 

Rich