Mid-Morning Nap by Greg Huddleston.

Greg Huddleston recently earned the “Best in Show” award at the first Student Show and Fall Open House at the William Woodward School of Fine Art in Warrenton.

Mr. Huddleston won with “Mid morning Nap," a painting of his dog Jake with a pillow that depicts a map of the world.

“We think Jake is dreaming of a vacation!” Mr. Woodward said.

FauquierNow.com asked Mr. Huddleston a few questions:

Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am retired after teaching English and journalism in Prince William County high schools for 33 years. I studied English in college, but whenever I could, I escaped to the art department for electives. While I enjoyed teaching and feel like I was a good teacher, I now have the time to pursue interests in writing, art, and music – interests that were dormant for many years.

Where do you live and what do you do?

My wife, Betty, and I have lived in Casanova for the past 23 years, along with our wire-fox terrier, Jake (my subject!), and Jack Russell, Leopold. Betty has been my biggest fan and muse when it comes to pursuing what talents I may have. (When I turned 50, she bought me a wonderful piano to re-connect with that interest.)

For the past five years I've worked part-time as associate editor for The Piedmont Virginian magazine where I write, help edit content, take pictures, put together the Desserts section in back, and help in other ways.

How long have you been painting and taking classes? What do you paint? How frequently?

In recent history I've been painting for about four years and have taken classes from Bill Woodward at the William Woodward School of Fine Art since it opened. Prior to that, I took classes and workshops from his wife, Becky Parrish, well-known for her florals and other still lifes. My main areas of focus in art have been landscapes and, to some degree, abstract expressions. I try to set aside at least a couple of days a week to paint, but my goal is to paint daily.

What else would you like to share?

Bill's class in “Materials and Methods” was one of the best art classes I've ever taken, totally fascinating study of the evolution of painting through history.