Passion by Polson, Paul 2024 NEUF

To devote your life to a passion such as art can result in unexpected rewards and happiness. However, because of the expectations of our American culture, one can expect to make sacrifices. Some of these sacrifices can be hard. Many people are unwilling to let go of traditional values and the monetary rewards that are promised when we "follow the rules."

Marriage, home ownership and securing a high-paying job with benefits, are a few of the things that might need to be sacrificed when a person chooses to pursue their passion.

Paul made this choice early in life, and would not be deterred. He would simply find a suitable space in which to paint, whether it be an old warehouse or an abandoned floor of a deserted building, and ask the owner for permission to paint there. His request was usually met with "Sure! Have at it!" Paul was either not charged, or he paid very little. He would then throw a mattress in the corner for his bed, and paint.

The freedom was amazing. Paul supported himself by working in art-related jobs, such as a frame shop or gallery, and spend his meager salary on painting supplies and food. Paul met his other needs, such as a bathroom facility, by being a lovable person with supportive friends.

His studio was not a money-making venture; it was his laboratory for experimentation and growth.

This story is about a person who wanted to be an artist so badly, that he wove his way through all the obstacles, to find himself and to discover the world through his talent. Pauls story takes you on a journey from his small hometown in Wyoming, to the San Diego art scene of the 1970s and early 80s, up to Seattle in the 1990s, over to Kitsap County, Washington, and finally to Astoria, Oregon, where he now resides.