I was introduced to hands-on involvement in painting in 2013, shortly after retiring from 44 years of public service at federal, state, and municipal levels.

Soon after retiring, I realized that the self-actualization that was a derivative of my former work-a-day world had dissipated.

I needed something in my life that would rekindle the sense of accomplishment and community that were part and parcel of the workplace.

Long story short—my wife, Jill, informed her exercise buddy, Jaci Muzamel, of my situation, and Jaci offered that membership in RFA might be illuminating and uplifting for me.

Jaci proved to be “spot on!” I had always had an appreciation for art but never had put brush to canvas.

So I joined RFA and found the organization to be a “one-stop-shop” for all things art. I was able to attend RFA-sponsored workshops under the tutelage of artists such as Rhonda Egan, Scott Mattlin, and Marilyn Rose.

And it so happened that at the time of my initial membership Gini Crepps was both RFA President and owner of IQ Design, which afforded the premises for extended workshops as well as a gallery for exhibiting completed works. Thus, I found involvement with RFA sparked new growth and renewed overall vigor.

The acrylic “Amelie’s Bunnies” hangs within our granddaughter’s bedroom as a representation of her infatuation with the furry critters.

Reif was a master pastel artist I studied under concurrently with my early involvement with RFA. I appreciated the vibrancy achievable via the pastel medium as well as the speed with which works could be completed. My paintings are generally landscapes. Subjects are copied from reality. Often buildings (e.g., barns) are featured.

In this contect I appreciate very much the work of Paul Cezanne, Vincent van Gogh, and Gene Speck. I do enjoy adding a whimsical touch to my landscapes when the setting affords such (a bit of comic relief goes a long way these days). The pastel titled “Hoppy Holidays in Frogtown” incorporated frogs’ celebration of Christmas within their swamp habitat.