For a few years while growing up in the Florida Keys, John painted watercolors and sold them at a local gift shop.  Thirty years later, John picked up a brush at his mom’s studio – rediscovering his love of painting. He has been surrounded by art his entire life. His mother, Dee Beard Dean, is an accomplished artist. John has traveled to 38 countries, soaking up the life and culture of the people he lived with.  He had long stays in India, Egypt, Thailand, Malaysia, and China.  He has also lived and traveled extensively throughout Europe.  These ventures help him connect with the people and places he paints. John lives in Jacksonville, Florida.