My Story
As an artist, I am largely self-taught through decades of reading, watching, experimenting, and (always, always) practicing.
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I say largely self-taught, because I did had a few strong teachers and influences early in life that started me on the right track. There was Shelton Wilder, my high school art teacher, perhaps the best and most dedicated teacher I ever had. He opened my eyes to the possibilities of art and allowed me space to find my own wings. There was a chance opportunity that changed my life; an amazing summer apprenticeship just after high school, with art master and world renowned fresco painter Ben Long, and finally a brief, albeit wonderful period as a student at The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art in Philadelphia.
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Like many young people who long to build a life around their creative passion, I soon found the obstacles to being a full-time artist too overwhelming, and made the difficult decision to pursue an IT career to pay the bills. While I stayed in technology for over 30 years, I have never stopped drawing and painting...and of course, learning. Apart from an occasional commission or the odd piece hung in a gallery, I have never shown my work...until now.
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More recently, during the first year of the pandemic, my wife Jen and I felt that it was finally time for me to step away from the business world to dedicate my time and focus to my art. And apart from getting to do what I love, I am excited about sharing my work with any/all who may enjoy it or be interested in it.
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Jeff McEntire
Durham, NC
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