How did you get started and then develop your career?
John Bowen: As far back as I can remember, l wanted to be an artist. My father drew and painted in many mediums, and as I grew l followed in his direction. By the time I graduated high school my mind was set. I knew I wanted to be a Commercial Artist. I was fortunate to land an apprentice artist position in an art service studio shop, right out of school.
I worked there for two years before joining the United States Air Force, from 1961 to 1969, as an illustrator. This included a one-year tour of duty in South Vietnam, graphically documenting Airlift Operations for the Allied Forces in 1968. After separating from the service in 1969, l spent the next 38 years working in Newspaper Advertising Art, retiring in 2008.
Throughout all those years I continued to do what I call “painterly realistic” watercolors, working from sketches and photos to create my paintings. I participated in many outdoor art festivals around the country. I am a signature member of both the Gold Coast and Florida Watercolor Societies, and an associate member of the American Society of Marine Artists.
To see more of John’s work, visit: johnbowenwatercolorist.com
My own Artist Spotlight was a great honor to me. I am very happy to have been included in with these very talented artists! I hope l can continue to be connected with this organization.