I began my art journey in 1975, age 31, deciding to use the benefits of my soon-to-expire GI
Bill, entering the Fine Arts Program at the University of New Hampshire. I managed to
complete their four-year BFA program in a little less than two years. (Don’t ask, it’s
complicated). I basically took classes in a way that was not designed by the University. I took
part in the 1977 BFA graduating class exhibition but had not achieved my diploma. After a two
year hiatus, I returned and completed UNH “requirements” for an official Bachelor of Fine Arts
degree in Studio Art.
After “graduating”, I continued to care for my terminally ill
daughter while doing my best to paint and occasionally “dabble”
in photography. I won a number of awards in both disciplines
along with patron collection of my work - including the Walt
Kuhn Collection. I showed in many exhibitions within New
England, solo and group, including the Currier Museum of Art.
In 2018, I was awarded the Down East Magazine “Grand Prize”
in landscape photography (See it in the January issue).
After the death of my daughter in ’83, I continued to paint and process photos but after a large
solo exhibit in 1995 did not show again until 2017 with a solo exhibit of 24 paintings; it was a
long 22 years filled with life’s experiences and the birth a new son which, once again, found
me being a half-time dad and later a full-time dad.
I continue to paint, do photography, and a bit of writing; trying to share the “gifts” and beauty
of what I see as our world.
Other interests/indulgences that influence my existence are Native teachings and ceremony
(my ancestry), Tai Chi and being a dancer at Native powwows. I also do my best to practice
gratitude and happiness ... it is such a short journey.
It is an honor for me to share. Hope you enjoy my work.
Apiji go miigwech (“thank you very much” - Ojibwe language),
Paul