Alex Vontevenar

Plein Air Oils

Hello! I’m Alex Vontevenar.
I recently started a new journey, following my dream of becoming a full-time artist! I don’t know how to start, and I don’t want people to feel bad for me; I hope this inspires people to chase their dreams and not let challenges hold them back.

I had been doing the same thing for the last ten years or so, cooking at different restaurants around town, and I was miserable. I worked my life away and wasn’t enjoying it. I always felt like I could do something more but never took the chance. I have a problem selling myself short, but anyway, I’m trying to summarize this: I didn’t like the life I was living already, and then randomly, one night, I had a seizure.

I found out I had epilepsy, and this changed my life; I lost my license for over a year, thought I wouldn’t be able to surf anymore, and thought my life was over, but it was just beginning. I started painting and fell In love with it; I spent so much time and energy learning by watching so many videos, and I still do. I would paint every day all day, and it helped me to stay positive. I remember returning to the water to surf again and catching my first wave! I felt alive!

I ended up going back to work and became miserable again, I had another seizure one afternoon after work and decided it was enough, and I’m going to change my life and do what makes me happy! Painting! I’ve learned so much in so little time, and I look forward to the rest of my journey. I appreciate all the support from my family, friends, and everyone here. I’m sorry for all the rambling. I wanted to share this. And hopefully, inspire someone.

I believe everything does and doesn’t happen for a reason; learn from it and grow.

Remember that there are ups and downs; when you’re having an up, stay humble, and when you’re having a down, stay positive.

I believe in myself and value my art. Thank you to everyone who has purchased one of my paintings! Thanks for all the support I get online! I’m very grateful for all of it and the life I’m living!!