Crif Rey

Visual Art – Madison

I was born and raised in Sauk City, Wisconsin, USA by parents who encouraged me not to jump off a cliff if everyone else does, not to compare myself with others, and to think for myself. I expect my six brothers and one sister received the same guidance. A high school art teacher thought I had art talent as a 1973 freshman and signed me up for Drawing and Painting as a sophomore. Until 2014, that was my last formal art class. Although I liked art, I was being practical and looking toward a future that could secure an income. Nevertheless, a seed was planted and I thank Pam Jacobson for that. I left high school with an eye on becoming a veterinarian; a pursuit that I had the constitution to realize; however, my interest waned after two years. I moved forward to a degree in chemistry and have had the good fortune to realize rewarding and mentally stimulating careers at four companies. I had the good fortune to meet my wife in my mid twenties and we raised three children who have moved on to rewarding pursuits in their lives. Our path has included seven years in Midland, MI, eight years in The Woodlands, TX, and my most recent 18 years in Waunakee, WI. I have had the good fortune to travel in Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. The seed planted in the drawing and painting class of 1973, has continued to grow.