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started painting for a living in the mid 1980’s refurbishing
airplanes. All color schemes were laid out by hand which taught me
valuable skills. Later I worked at several car dealerships and independent
body shops.
Today
I do custom work exclusively. Most of my work is with motorcycles;
however I use the same techniques on antique electric fans, iron
beds and floor lamps. I make medieval weapons as well. I am of Scottish
ancestry and the weaponry started as a hobby. The weapons make nice
display items and a mace or flail just seemed to fit in with the
crowds at bike shows. I also offer coat of arms painting and will
design logos because it is the ultimate personal touch. “One
of a kind” items are always more special and I enjoy personalizing
things.
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View
this documentary as seen on "Virginia Currents"
PBS Ch.23 in Richmond, Virginia |
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I
encourage anyone to research their own family coat of arms.
You will sometimes be surprised by the meaning; to show
you what I am saying here is my coat of arms and a description
of the meaning behind it:
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The
Carmichael Clan badge and motto is taken from the exploits
of Sir John de Carmichael of Meadowflat
(later Carmichael) |
who
became the first Chief of the clan. John was the son of
William, 2nd Baron of Carmichael, who built the first castle
on the estate around 1414. |
During
the 100 Years war between France and Britain, John was a
Scottish Knight and was sent to France to fight their common
enemy (England). |
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French had not won any battles until March 22, 1421 when
at the Battle of Bauge John de Carmichael engaged the Duke
of Clarence, brother of King Henry IV and knocked him off
of his horse. The impact broke John’s spear and The
Duke of Clarence was killed. The English fled seeing their
commander killed. This was a stunning upset victory for
the Scots and French. For his deed John was awarded the
family crest featuring a broken spear grasped by an armor
clad hand. The family motto is “Tout Jour Prest (Too
Shore Pray) ancient French for “Always Ready.”
Sir John was knighted by the Scottish King. In 1426 he was
appointed Bishop of Orleans during the rise of Joan of Arc. |
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