I have always been known by my nickname, Skip, but my “real” name is Raymond. I didn't start painting until 1982, when I was out of work and needed Christmas gifts for my sisters. I took photos of their dogs and painted two portraits in oil using the paints and brushes that were given to me years ago by a friend, who was also an accomplished artist. What I discovered, at least for me, is that the outcome of a painting is not as important as the process. I am usually alone (and prefer to be, when I paint) and that experience leads to a lot of thoughts beyond art, or being an artist, and seems more like meditation. Forty years later, I am still doing dog portraits and paintings in oil, acrylics, and watercolors, and giving them away as gifts. It adds a special incentive to do my best.

I have a book of collected stories about my childhood and later years published on Amazon which in many ways came out of the solitude and quiet time spent painting. Some of my favorites can be read on the Stories page.  

Contact: skipvanlenten@gmail.com