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.