About the Artist
Paul was born into the traditions of the "Old Time Maine Guide" lifestyle. Both sets of grandparents ran sporting camps in Rangeley, Maine for many years. Errol Wentzell, who was Paul's grandfather was a fire warden and respected guide on the Richardson Lakes during the 20's and 30's "The glory days of Upper Dam". Paul grew up with rich and colorful stories about guiding, big fish and personal stories about Errol's friends like Kenny Burns, The Pearson Family, Carrie Stevens and Louise Dickinson Rich. As a young boy Paul can remember standing by Errol's side in the Rangeley Region Fly shop and becoming hitmotized with the rows of flies, trout mounted on the wall, countless bamboo rods and most importnat the coversations with heavy Maine acents between the older gentleman in the store. As Paul looks back on these memories he realizes they were special and that he was experiencing first hand a now gone genertaion of old time fly fisherman. Errol passed away in 2003 at the age of 98 and was the last of the "Old Time Maine Guides" from Rangeley. Paul considers himself very fortunate to have had a true Maine woodsman as a mentor and grandfather. Errol's influence runs deep in Paul's appreciation of fishing, the outdoors, and the Maine Guide brotherhood. He's very proud of his special and unique connection to the Rangeley area. During the summer of 2007 Paul will be working on obtaining his Maine Guides license for personal fulfillment and to continue his grandfathers legacy.

Paul studied art extensively in grade school and later received a BFA in Illustration/Graphic Design from Rivier College.

After many years of working as a computer artist in the graphic arts industry, Paul decided to reacquaint himself with traditional drawing and painting techniques learned in early years. “Fish Skins” are the perfect blend of Paul’s passion for Rangeley, fishing and his training as an artist.

Fish Skins ©2007