The idea behind this series of cartoons originated, in large part, from conversations I’d had over time with a good friend of mine. He is a painter. He loves to throw himself into a creative project, whether it is one of his excellent pastel landscapes or his version of a cardboard-based “time machine” for the amusement of guests at an upcoming party. Nothing pleases him more than to shut himself in his studio and paint.

By day, he is a banker. I guess he’s a good one: he has a corner office. He’s the first to admit that he likes the percs that come with a regular pay check, but he has never gotten over the fact he followed his businessman father’s blueprint instead of allowing himself to draft his own. He’ll retire soon and devote himself full-time to his art. I’m happy for him.