In 2012, I was a wreck. My life was falling apart and I was losing a really ugly battle with depression. I was desperate. Broken. So, I found God, as most people do when there is nothing else. And I found art. I always loved art as a child but never, EVER thought I was good enough to be an artist. So at the ripe ole age of 47, I started painting. Painting random people at the coffee shop, the shoe shine guy with the awesome smile, people at work, friends on Facebook and Instagram. Fast forward to now, five years later; I’ve painted over 60 portraits; have had two gallery showings; have had my work featured locally and nationally; and even had a painting used for a movie poster. I’ve done a handful of commissioned pieces but quickly learned that getting paid to paint wasn’t my calling. So, I give my paintings away. Give them back to the amazing people that I’ve painted after I’ve displayed them. I also donate my paintings to charities. THAT is my calling. Doing good with my work, my gift. Because as the great Pablo Picasso said “The secret to life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.”

More info: deanskinner.tumblr.com

Michael. Barista at my favorite coffee shop. 36 x 48 acrylic on canvas

Elise. 48 x 60 acrylic on canvas

Morgan. 36 x 48 acrylic on canvas

The Saxman. 36 x 48 acrylic on canvas

Elise. 48 x 60 acrylic on canvas

Mathew. One of my first Barista paintings. 24 x 36 acrylic on canvas

Aaron. 24 x 36 acrylic on canvas and the best smile in the world

Surprising one of my favorite baristas…92 year old Wakem

My first gallery showing

Work on display

Work on display

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