05/06/2008 16:20:20

Brad, thanks for the interest and the interesting question.  I started painting right after I got married in 1972 and did it part time until about 1988. I always said I would start again when I retired.  Well, I retired from government civil service in 2003, with 34 years in.  I started painting again, got in to a few local shows, sold a piece and have been painting like mad ever since.  It does get to be an obsession.  If I cannot paint 3 or 4 days a week, I start to get withdrawal symptom.  I never depended on my painting to support myself or my family.  And in truth, despite the fact that I know many, many artists, I only know 2 who really do support themselves through their art.  (and in all honesty, one of them is more of a crafter than an artist).  Most of the artists that I know are either retired, or work some kind of job to support their art habit or, in a few lucky cases, they are trust fund babies.   The economics of art in this country have always been bad for artists and they are worse now than usual. But in any event, good luck.  I am in Arlington,VA , almost 300 miles from Roanoke, but I do go to the Shenandoah valley for material sometime.  Where you live is surrounded by some beautiful scenery.  Keep up the good work.  Richard

05/06/2008 16:05:56

Hi Brad,
Is the "Wild at Heart" book the one about living the true, authentic life in Christ ( and not playing 'church')?  I noticed it was one of your favorites.   If so, I have read it and thought it was great, even though it focused on men.   It helped me realize it was okay to have dreams and to be myself.  Your art work is very strong, and I enjoyed looking at it.  Take care, Lucinda

04/30/2008 08:32:56

Hi Brad, I Like your new work, the cats great.

04/23/2008 22:12:18

Hi Brad,  nice work!!

Anne

04/23/2008 11:36:07

Thanks Brad!  I was feeling over worked and overly stressed this morning, and then I read your nice comment and it cheered me up. 

ta ta,

Annie

04/23/2008 10:19:24

Brad,

Great work in your gallery. Do you usually work in watercolor? I also have found Art Calendar a very helpful magazine. I go to Borders here and have a cup of expresso and read the articles when a new edition comes out. I'm always liked Jack White since the day a met him in Dallas, years ago.

Noticed your mention of "Wild at Heart". My son and I read that book several years ago. Great book.

God bless,

sm 

04/16/2008 10:14:22

Brad...I echo your very words...of not trying to market self...but here we are, in living color!!!  Hahaha...don't know what good it will do, but it is all in fun, anyway!  Keep doing art, bro!

04/14/2008 08:15:59

Hi Brad, Welcome to our group, you will meet some very nice people and when you ask for help people are good to respond. I like your work. " Bath Time" is soooooo cute.