During the last century, there has been considerable debate about whether it is nature or nurture that inspires art. Arguments can be made on both sides. But I feel that my artistic journey is an example of why it is so difficult to come to a firm and unyielding conclusion. I was certainly exposed to art at home, watching my parents draw and paint for leisure. But my expressions of interest in doing the same were met with indifference and then active discouragement. It was simply “out of the question” and “no way to make a living.” But every now and again I could get my hands on a paintbrush and I knew that I would someday be a painter.