My introduction to oil painting came through the wonderful man I married
in 1975, whose enjoyment of art continues today. Art is among his many
hobbies; avid golfer, aviator, fisherman, carpender (He singlehandly built
My Studio for Me, from the ground up !! ) He was my first instructor and
continues to lend his valuable support to me.
My experience includes college courses in drawing and oil painting
wherein I received the “Art Student of the Year Gold Medal Award” at
Kiswaukee College in Malta, Illinois.
I attended courses at "the Art Institute of Chicago"which focused on seascapes
and understanding the Sea, under the instruction of well-known artist, Charles
Vickery. I have always loved the water and being instructed by one who understood its moods,
rhythms and visual sensations was very challenging and inspirational.
Education has been most important in giving me the tools necessary to commit my thoughts
and ideas to drawing and oil painting.
Although I studied and attended college and workshops from 1975 through 1984, and have
a number of paintings hanging in the homes of friends and family, art was still considered by
me a hobby and in 1990 when I accepted a full time position in the work force, I was unable
to devote the time to art that I considered necessary to produce anything noteworthy. I retired
in 2006 and I am once again enjoying my passion for drawing and oil painting, devoting full
time and energy to it.
Joyce Graves Moncrief