watauga valley artists

Don Dykes

Born in Atlanta, Don moved to
Tennessee as a small boy. After
attending Happy Valley High School
for 3 years, he graduated from
Unaka High School in 1986. While
serving in the Air Force, in
Columbia, South Carolina, he spent
his free time photographing the
surronding countryside and local
wildlife. He attended college in
South Carolina with major
emphases in engineering and
mechanical drawing. After his
marriage in 1993 to wife Dana, he
placed his artistic ability on hold for
10 years. He gradually eased back
into painting by painting some
family antiques as well as a wall
mural in their son's room. These are
displayed in their home. In addition
to painting, Don enjoys wood
crafting. Although he has had no
formal art training, he is making
models for model railroads. Acrylics
are his preferred media, but oils are
also utilized. He is bestowed with a
God given talent.