When meeting this lively, humorous and humble man, Greg Stock, he reminded me of these two quotes: “At the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything you gave me.” – Erma Bombeck and “The person born with a talent they are meant to use will find their greatest happiness in using it.” – Johann Wolfgang von Goethe.
Where The Journey Started
Two years ago, 60-year old Greg from Gauteng surprised himself. He describes it as a spiritual God inspired decision. Greg decided to paint again, after 40 years, he was going to set up an easel and take up his paintbrushes. You might think “What is the big deal?” but let me tell you his story:
Exceptional talent is not something that can lie dormant. It needs to express itself, and bring joy.
Forty years ago, Greg enrolled as a full time student at the National School of Arts (then known as the Johannesburg School of Art, Ballet and Music), where he studied art techniques and understanding. Life took him on roads far from being able to actively live out his talent. As they say, life happens, but exceptional talent is not something that can lie dormant. It needs to be expressed.
He is astounded and amazed at the reaction his paintings receive.
“An inner voice was urging me on. Clear as day. Where are the paintings you were supposed to give to the world?” He explained that this feeling would not subside, “So, I took up my brushes after 40-years. People might think I am a crazy old fossil, that wants to rely on painting for a living in my old age,” Greg said jokingly
Family Life
Greg is happily married and one of his recent paintings, beautiful flowers, was for the love of his life. He is father to four sons, whom he loves dearly. He shared a secret, however: “I know it seems crazy, but I understand a mothers’ intense love for her children, I do. My kids are everything to me. That is until my grandchildren were born! My heart now really lives outside my body.” The family has three grandchildren.
This is one of Greg’s most recent pieces.
Where To Now
He says he is astounded and amazed at the reaction his paintings receive. “ If you think one can just start painting after such a long time, you are wrong, it is not like riding a bicycle! It is like starting to crawl before you walk. I have to re-learn techniques and understanding of the medium all over again, the knowledge and skill of my youth is far in the past. It is never too late to start again. I am ever hopeful that this new chapter of living out my natural talent and abilities will be fulfilling and bring joy and pleasure to art lovers everywhere. I wish I had time to paint a new piece every week, but we must make a living too.”
Please submit your story to us HERE
For more positive and uplifting stories visit us at #ImStaying
GOOD THOUGHTS • GOOD WORDS • GOOD DEEDS
Edited By: Erna Maré
