Hello everyone

Rick Hamilton · 08-02-2002, 11:17 AM

I only recently discovered A Stroke Of Genius, and even more recently (yesterday) registered. I wish I had known that it was here a long time ago.

I have been painting since I was a teenager and it has always been a means of spiritual calm for me. I spent the first twenty years of my professional life as a musician, and still compose and perform occationally. I also recently sold a business that I had been a partner in for the last four years and have had the time, and the oppotunity, to do several commissions for friends. For many years my passion has been to paint every day, all day, but old habits like driving in to the office every morning are hard to break, especially when it pays the bills.

I have missed having other artists to speak with, throw ideas off of, get input from, and simply exchange stories and adventures with. So, by way of artistic introduction, I have attached a portrait I did of my wife Maureen and welcome any input.

I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible. It is obvious that there is a wealth of talent, experience and frienship here.

Cynthia Daniel · 08-02-2002, 11:56 AM

Welcome Rick!

Being an artist is a lonely profession. So, is being a web designer.

I wasn't sure if you were aware that this Forum is part of a larger site. A Stroke of Genius really refers to http://www.portraitartist.com. This Forum is simply a part of that larger site. I thought you'd enjoy seeing all that's featured there. Many of the members of this Forum are not members of the main site and vice versa. This Forum is open to any portrait painter whether they are on SOG or not.

Rick Hamilton · 08-02-2002, 12:15 PM

Thanks.

Actually I found the main site first and later found the Forum. I am extemely impressed with what I have seen in the galleries and the level of workmanship and talent. I am also very impressed with the site itself. The business I mention in my bio was a Web / eCommerce and Software Application Development firm. I have had many years of Web development experience so I empathize with you in your times of loneliness.

Let me say that you are doing a superb job. This is one of the most professional and elegant sites I have seen. And I've seen tens of thousands. Keep up the great work.

Cynthia Daniel · 08-02-2002, 12:32 PM

Thank you for your compliments! It means a lot coming from someone with design experience. I come from a business mainframe background of 18 years, but was bored to tears. Then I managed a portrait painter for 6 years and voila, Stroke of Genius was born thereafter. Finally, something to stimulate both sides of my brain.

Karin Wells · 08-13-2002, 11:19 AM

Beautiful work. I also find it tough to work in isolation. I am glad you found us and hope to see more of your paintings...welcome!