I was fortunate enough to be born with some natural talent. My father Robert A. Powell is a professional artist, author, historian. My mother Betsy was active with homemakers and 4H. So, growing up, my brother, Scott and I were surrounded by artists and a valuable creatively abundant environment. A worldly educational childhood for the inquisitive mind.My style developed by employing lush deep colors, mixed with fantasy realism, landscapes, wildlife, no matter in which medium or what I endeavored to create. My works were received well. I had written articles, been interviewed for books and magazines, had just began to have artwork on the covers of international books and magazines, had a set of art prints on the market. At a young age I had co-illustrated the official Kentucky text book which my father wrote and had written and illustrated my own children’s book. I was on my way to be a prominent diverse contributor to the world of artists and authors, when life sent me a devastatingly new challenge and I became disabled. I was forced to focus on physical rehab and to learning a new way of life. I was still in the great struggle but between therapies when I visited my father in Florida. My health seemed improved so I decided that if I could find a way I would move to Florida. The warm weather has allowed me to continue my art and stories, as well as help to sustain and improve my quality of life with my passion to create.As I have grown I feel that my art has also matured. I draw, paint, sculpt, carve, design, sew, build, etc. Overcoming my misfortunes taught me that I am capable of a lot more than I thought. Life will throw something at you and it is sink or swim. I chose to swim. If I am interested in doing something I will try to find a way to do it, I may have to research, explore and experiment to find it. Through my struggles I had to foster my ability to adapt and was blessed with the creative mind to find new ways to get things done. Experimenting, creating, adapting has allowed me to become productive no matter what challenges I face.I am hoping that this new chapter will allow me to share what I love with people who will enjoy my work and want to be a part of it. I feel that this new direction is “participation art” and not just something to color. Coloring books have evolved into something everyone can appreciate and enjoy.Read more about this authorRead less about this author