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A long time ago, in a classroom far, far away....

Actually it wasn't that long ago and it was a Bob Ross Oil Painting class located just a few miles from home.

Hi, I'm Morris Hinson.

For years Gail and I watched Bob Ross do his magic. His PBS television show, The Best of The Joy Of Painting, was part of our usual Saturday morning. One day, unaware of the monster she was about to unleash, Gail gave me a present of a Bob Ross oil painting class. I have to admit I wasn't very happy with my first painting. But I knew that with some time and practice I would get better and besides, I had had too much fun... I was hooked. This wet-on-wet method of painting was for me. I found a teacher that I clicked with and the journey began. Some classes, some practice and in 2002 I found myself in Silver Falls, Oregon earning my Alexander Art Certification. I started teaching on a part time basis but now that I'm retired I do it full time. In 2005 I received my Bob Ross Certification. I also teach basic classes in watercolor and calligraphy. My wife, Gail, is a 'scrapper' (scrapbooking) and a consultant for "Close To My Heart". She really enjoys making cards and memory books. Gail is also a singer. She sang in her fathers county/western band and semi-professionally at weddings and other events. She loves to sing and continues to do so at special church events. Gail and I are active in our church. She works with the women's ministry team and also helps with the church's website. We both attend and enjoy Bible study classes. I also have a ministry that is based on my membership in A.A.. I work with folks who struggle with addiction(s). All in all, life is good. And painting has been and continues to be a wonderful, enjoyable part of it. I've heard it said that 'joy shared is joy doubled'. Sharing the wonderful world of art makes that thought a reality. Each of you has contributed to the fun. Painting has taught me to look at the world with different eyes. Everywhere I look I am amazed at what God has done. Sky, clouds, a path in the woods, trees, even broken branches, everything is now a wonder to behold. I see ripples in the stream, birds on the wing and the way snow lies on an open field in the moonlight. I often find myself looking at a sunset and saying "Wow, God, how do you do that?" If I never put another brush to canvas it has all been worth it just to see nature as I do now. If you have decided to become part of this wonderful world, welcome. Personally, I have found a creative hobby that I love. It's more than the painting though. It's learning a new technique, organizing the brushes and other supplies, having others comment on my work and the best part, sharing. Thank you for letting me share my world with you.