A scratch is a dot that went for a walk Art in Life

My inspiration comes from witnessing animals in moments.

The moment my passion for the art of scratchboard started to form was the moment my father asked if I would rather attend a traditional college or art school. Soon after, I enrolled at the American Academy of Art in Chicago, IL.

My inspiration comes from witnessing animals in moments. The light reflecting in the fixed gaze of a horse, the pose of a lioness as she lays besides her cubs, the heated breath of a bison on a brisk morning. These moments are filled with energy and emotion, making them beautiful and unique. Once I identify a subject I have the privilege of making it my own. I ask: What would I change? Would another background better enhance the subject? Have I developed my skills enough to accomplish my vision and do the photograph justice? And of course, I lean on a support network of coaches.

The best compliment I ever received came from a great-grandmother at my first art fair when I was 20 years old. I was showing a representation of a Collie I had completed for my father (we watched “Lassie” on Sunday evenings as a family). The woman looked closely at the image for a long time before finally asking, “how long it take you to paste on all of those hairs?” I love that lady!

Shop Paul’s Gallery      Email Paul