My Art Journey From 8 Years Old To 86 Years Old

Every artist has a beginning. Mine started at the age of eight with a simple pencil, a blank sheet of paper, and a dream that would shape the next seventy-eight years of my life.

Looking back now at 86 years old, I can honestly say that art has been one of life’s greatest blessings. It has introduced me to incredible people, taken me across the country, opened gallery doors I once only imagined, and allowed me to leave behind a legacy of creativity for future generations.

Discovering My Passion

Growing up in Independence, Missouri, I found myself constantly drawing anything that caught my imagination. While many children eventually moved on to other hobbies, I never did.

My parents quickly realized that I had an unusual passion for creating artwork. Every opportunity I had, I was sketching, painting, or experimenting with colors. Those early years became the foundation for a lifelong career that continues today.

Even then, I wasn’t simply drawing pictures—I was learning how to tell stories through art.

Learning From Great Teachers

As I grew older, I knew that if I wanted to become a professional artist, I needed to continue learning.

I had the privilege of studying under the late Missouri artist Andrew Thoman, whose instruction helped me understand composition, color harmony, and the discipline required to become a successful painter.

Later, after moving to California, I continued my education by studying with renowned artist Bert Carter. Every lesson expanded my understanding of oil painting and reinforced one important truth:

Great artists never stop learning.

That philosophy still guides me today.

A Detour Through Baseball

Many people are surprised to learn that my life nearly took a completely different direction.

I was drafted by the Los Angeles Dodgers organization and attended rookie training camp with dreams of playing professional baseball.

Unfortunately, a severe ankle injury ended those aspirations before they truly began.

At the time, it felt devastating.

Today, I see it differently.

Sometimes life closes one door so another can open.

In my case, that door led back to painting.

Opening My First Gallery

Returning to art full-time eventually led me to open my own gallery in beautiful Laguna Beach, California—one of America’s most respected art communities.

Later I opened another gallery and studio in Canoga Park, where I not only painted but also taught oil painting classes to aspiring artists.

Teaching others became one of the most rewarding chapters of my career. Watching students discover their own artistic abilities reminded me why I fell in love with painting as a child.

Art has always been about more than creating paintings.

It’s about inspiring others.

Finding Inspiration Along Florida’s Gulf Coast

In 2013, I relocated to Sarasota, Florida, where the breathtaking beauty of the Gulf Coast provided endless inspiration.

The sparkling waters, white sand beaches, colorful sunsets, swaying palm trees, sailboats, and peaceful shorelines became central themes in my artwork.

Today, many collectors recognize my paintings for their vibrant coastal atmosphere and calming sense of peace.

Each painting represents more than a beautiful location.

It captures a memory.

Whether someone vacations on Siesta Key, owns a favorite boat, or simply loves the ocean, I strive to create artwork that brings those cherished moments back to life.

Collectors Around the World

Over the decades, my original oil paintings have found homes throughout the United States, Canada, England, Germany, France, Switzerland, New Zealand, and Slovakia.

I’ve also had the privilege of creating artwork for well-known collectors, including Art Linkletter and Debbie Reynolds.

While those accomplishments have been meaningful, every collector is equally important to me.

Whether someone purchases a small coastal painting or commissions a custom piece to commemorate a family vacation, I approach every painting with the same commitment to quality.

Continuing To Learn At 86

People often ask why I still paint every day.

The answer is simple.

I love it.

At 86 years old, every new canvas presents another opportunity to improve, experiment, and grow as an artist.

Creativity has no retirement age.

In fact, experience often allows artists to see beauty in ways they couldn’t when they were younger.

Today, I also enjoy sharing my knowledge through books, YouTube videos, blog articles, and educational resources that help other artists improve both their painting skills and their marketing strategies.

Helping others succeed has become just as rewarding as creating my own artwork.

Looking Ahead

When I painted my first picture at eight years old, I never imagined where this incredible journey would lead.

Seventy-eight years later, I remain grateful for every lesson, every painting, every collector, every student, and every friendship made through art.

My hope is that my story encourages others to pursue their own creative dreams regardless of age.

Whether you’re eight years old or eighty-six, it is never too early—or too late—to begin creating something meaningful.

Every masterpiece begins with a single brushstroke.

Mine started when I was eight.

And the journey continues today.