Better late than never
 

Hi everyone. I was so immersed in the different forums that I almost forgot to introduce myself :bewildere .

I was born and raised in Toronto, but now live just outside of it in Mississauga (where the homes are more affordable). At 32 years old, I have decided to return to the world of art. I discovered my passion for art in high school and did quite well right up to graduation. Then I accepted the advice of the school's career counsellor and took the conservative and 'safe road' to higher education and forsook my artistic goals for a degree in Labour Relations and Sociology from the University of Toronto. Fast forward 14 years later, I am happily married with two beautiful daughters, and life is great. As far as a career is concerned, I decided to join the family business, full time, in 1995 at Ultimate Signs Ltd. I really couldn't get away from 'the sign business' having worked in the industry since I was 15 years old. As a sign professional and graphic designer, I have been able to gain considerable experience and knowledge in art related issues and materials that cross all mediums and techniques. Throughout the years I have enjoyed art as a hobby and always regretted that I didn't pursue my original dream. I have dabbled in different genres and themes, but always tried to maintain my goal of realism in every piece I created. I have received a few portrait commissions over the years and have received enough feedback from friends and family to feed my inner desire to pursue art in a more professional and structured manner. I have lots to learn in the ways of art and the business of portraiture, however, I am currently receiving the odd commission, and regard this as part time work. I am presently seeking a school or mentor to help hone my skills and abilities to facilitate my goals of becoming a professional portrait artist.

I am very happy and grateful to be surrounded by such remarkable talent and hope that I can offer even a fraction of the same help to others on this site.

(Sorry, I haven't found a recent picture of myself but will include my very first portrait done in high school, and the very latest portrait I am currently working on).

David Bottoni

Your counselor should be shot! Welcome aboard.

When my sister was 40 she decided to go to college. People told her that she'd be 44 by the time she got her degree. Her reply was she'd be 44 in four years either way. Now she's an environmental engineer.

Welcome as well!
 

Too many see the artist's path as a page out of Van Gogh. Poverty, misery, cold garrets. That is at least what I was told.

I've never been in a garret in my life. I have in some way always been able to earn a dollar here and there, and though it has always been a struggle, I shudder to think of the alternative.

Hi David, and welcome.

There is only one way of learning portraiture, and doing it is much more fun than just wanting to.

Allan

Marvin, I couldn't agree with you more. Thanks for your thoughts Sharon and Allan.

I am being very selective and reserved in accepting paid commission work until I develop my artistic skills to a higher degree and build up my portfolio. I just returned from a tour at the Michael John Angel Academy and am contemplating starting their program. For those of you that are not familiar, it is quite an impressive school - http://www.angelartacademy.com. I am still searching, but I don't think I will find a better 'school' in my area. I have way too many commitments with family and work to think about going to school full time and will have to try a part time study. In the mean time, its practice, practice, practice accompanied by reading and surfing the web.

Thanks for saying hello.

David

Hi David,
Welcome to the forum. You do very nice work. And you are very fortunate to live in Toronto and to be able to attend the Angel Studio. I get their newsletter and dream of attending there . I live in Cleveland and have even considered commuting, driving the three-four hours each day!! I just don't have the stamina, what with working full time.

Looking forward to seeing more of your work!

Pat

Hi David, and welcome!

What part of Mississauga do you live in? That's where I was raised, in Malton.

Hi Michele. I am south of the airport, near the border of Toronto (Etobicoke). I actually grew up in Etobicoke, the suburb of Toronto, right next to Centennial Park. I see you are in Seattle now, and wonder if you miss 'hogtown'. Toronto has a great museum and art galleries, but good art schools are limited (with the exception of the Mr. Angel's Academy). I am looking forward to posting some work for critique, but they may be slow in coming.

Thanks for noticing.

David

Hi David and welcome to the forum. You'll find many generous teachers here. And I agree with Marvin, your counselor should have been shot!

Jean