Signed Mother and Child Expressionist Painting from Ghana, "Mother and Child"

"Samuel Lartey is my name. I was born in 1982 in Accra. My friends say I'm talented and creative.

"Art comes to me naturally. My interest started in infancy.

"When I decided to pursue painting as a career, I trained with an artist named Mr. Forson. I find that nature attracts me and I work in a realistic style. However, I love colors and sometimes give an expressionistic twist to my work.

"It was not easy starting out on my own. To raise money to buy more materials, I had to sell some of my paintings and often it's not easy to find a buyer. Even today, it can still be a challenge to sell enough art to keep a supply of acrylics, canvas, gesso and brushes.

"Determination, concentration and a commitment to my teacher and to my creative vision helped me master this art.

"One day I was painting a plein air village scene with the last paint I had. I took a break to visit the washroom. By the time I returned to my easel, a child had poured the paint all over him and started laughing. As I stood there watching the small boy all covered with my last paint I just couldn't hold my breath — I burst into laughter as well. What else could I do?

"Another time, I had accepted a commission for a portrait of a lady that was to be her birthday present. I had to stay awake all night to finish in time for her birthday celebration the following day.

"In addition to nature, I find inspiration in meditation and in reading art books.

"Although I usually work alone, I often organize the kids in my area and I teach them how to paint, which is fun for them and also a benefit to the community.

"My dream is to open a small school one day teach children who are interested art."