I have always been known by my nickname, Skip, but my “real” name is Raymond. I didn't start painting until 1982 when I took photos of my sisters dogs and painted two portraits in oil using the paints and brushes that were given to me by a friend who was an accomplished artist. What I discovered is that the outcome of a painting is not as important to me as painting itself. I am usually alone when I paint, which allows me to reflect on thoughts beyond art, or being an artist, and forty years later, I am still painting in oil, mostly doing dog portraits and giving them away as gifts. I have also discovered acrylics, and watercolors, and have used them for a number of paintings.

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