This painting began with a person in motion, captured in a single moment in time. I decided to paint this composition and only later realized that the seemingly random background was actually telling a story from the subject's life. Let me tell you that story: There once was a boy who wanted to paint. He studied night and day with a Great Mentor. One day his mother said, "If you spend any more time with this mentor or any more money on art lessons, I will disown you." The boy stood his ground and is now living on his own in a life filled with art. Only after the painting was underway did I learn of the dilemma this teen would face. It is fascinating to note that the painting of mother and son behind him was originally painted by his mentor.