I became a bit of a teacher's pet, and it became known in the school by both faculty and students that I really excelled in the arts. So that recognition I credit for my growing interest in art that continued to evolve later on.

At school there were some programs in music. I did take piano lessons, and we had a piano at home. I got very interested in that.

Charles Burchfield was exceptional. As such an accomplished artist, he had limited previous association with academia and teaching.

I've always been a keen cyclist, I'm very close to the world of cycling. Not just cycling really - also walking, adventures, being a curious person, traveling to new countries.

When life closes a door, God opens a window.

Going back to the elementary school days, I was always drawing. I entered a Victory poster competition and won the top award that recognized my artistic instincts.

The Japanese are hard to understand, but once you do the world is your oyster.