Phil
McConnell
While I was in service (USAF) a request came down wanting someone who could oil paint, to do a large picture of our squadron patch. That effort wasn't much but it was rewarding. The word got out and the first painting lead to doing several other paintings for other squadrons on base.
From that I started painting land and seascapes. My preference is working with oil, but I do use acrylics in some of my base work. Although I have no professional training and I am self taught, and I have strong support from my family and friends.
I have realized that I needed additional training to improve my work. I went to several instructors and took several classes, but wasn't competely satisfied. I then located Darrell Crow Studios, and started additional training with his style. I have now moved on to advanced training with Darrell and things started improving with his help. http://darrellcrow.com/index.php?page=sitemap.htm. I see colors, details and scenery that I haven't seen before and try to reproduce that information with my paintings. I now look at the outside world with a different view.
I was born and raised in Cleveland, Tennessee and now live just West of Atlanta, Georgia. I am also an active member of the South Cobb Art Alliance, Paulding Fine Arts Association and Carrollton Artists Guild, located near my home, where I also have several paintings on display.
I have also completed all requirements for the Alexander Art Certified Instructor program, "ACI".
I've mentioned just a few of the things that inspire me to paint, but each passing day the list continues to grow.