Gideon Biography

Gideon began drawing & carving at the early age of five.   He grew to realize the depths of his purpose and started on a path that was to be his life's work.  These are a few examples of pieces done by Gideon as a child.

Jigs

Gideon did this carving from an old apple crate with a small
pocket knife at age 6 . He won First place & 25 cents
in an art show (1930).

Carved Chain

Gideon carved the chain from a broomstick at age 10.

Grandpa Richter

This drawing of his grandfather was done by Gideon at age twelve.

This is Gideon at age sixteen doing some photo tinting. He lived in Chicago at this time, where he worked as a welder.  He attended the Chicago Academy of Fine Arts at night (studying charcoal drawing for six months).   This was the only formal training Gideon ever received.  His schooling was interrupted by the outbreak of WW11.  Being very patriotic, Gideon joined the Army.

Gideon's War Years

At age 18, Gideon was trained as a Ranger in the Army & was sent to Europe for the duration of World War II.  He continued his work, carrying what art materials he could in an ammunition container.   Every chance he got, he would sketch out the feelings and emotions he saw as he marched through France and Germany.  

After the War

In l946, Gideon chose to live in Miami Fl. where he has worked ever since without interruption, developing new ideas and techniques in the world of art.  He has continued to make his own paints & sculpting compounds, which gives him thorough understanding & control of all his materials.

Gideon is very much into keeping fit.  He studies nutrition & watches what he eats.  He believes in the health benefits of exercise & has been a bodybuilder most of his life.

(right)

Recent photo (Sept. 97) of Gideon doing his "killer-sit-ups." (Pretty good for a man who is 74 years old.)

(left)

At Present

In his seventies, Gideon's inspiration has not diminished.  He works every day, which in Gideon's words "...is always a learning and fulfilling experience." Gideon has a lifetime of his work and study in the arts. This important collection is extensive enough to set up a private or public museum showing "The Life of One Man in the Arts."  A Museum of this sort would have an a great impact on the world of art, especially in the education of children as to what the life of a serious artist is really about.