John Parsons - Red Poppies

Original oil painting 12 inches by 12 inches.

After my first two years of prerequisites at the University of Utah, I was at a crossroads to choose painting or ceramics as my art major.  Doug Snow’s abstract work was both dynamic and thought provoking.  To me he was a teacher who had a gift to inspire.  However, clay had definitely the most attraction.  Dorothy Bearnson, who started the ceramic department at the U, encouraged me to create with clay.  She jokingly warned that a potter should be able to jump a fence with 50 pounds of clay on his back.  At 72, I appreciate that comment and prefer to lift a brush.  I am happily painting in Spring City, sharing a studio with my wife and artist Cassandria.  We both enjoy a tranquil life, and the excitement of paint.