Originally from the Big Sky country of Montana, John expressed an interest and desire for drawing at an early age. He continued to pursue this creative endeavor as a hobby when he moved to the Central Coast and began a career as a surveyor with the California Division of Highways. On retirement, art became more than a spare-time diversion so he enrolled in a drawing class at Allan Hancock College taught by Nat Fast.
John recalls that it was because of his daughter that his interest in other mediums really bloomed. “My daughter took a watercolor class and didn’t care for it, so she gave me all of her supplies and told me to try it out”. And he did. The watercolor sessions were followed by classes and workshops in acrylics, life drawing with live models, a multi-media class, and silk painting. John continues to take art classes as he credits his instructors and fellow students with keeping his creative interests on a high. John remarks, “The artists in this area are so open and willing to share their ideas and techniques. It is like one big happy creative family.”
John currently exhibits at the Santa Maria Airport Showcase and Gallery. He has been a member of the Town Center Gallery since 2002 and is on the Board of Directors. He is also a member of the Central Coast Gallery.