A native of Southern California, Jeff Daniel Smith began winning awards for his art while in high school. At El Camino College in Southern California he focused on drawing, painting and art history. In his mid-twenties, Jeff created paintings and murals for commercial spaces while working for an art studio which eventually led to painting backdrops for photography and film. He benefited from the experience which allowed him to paint on a large scale in a wide variety of subjects and styles. After moving to the Monterey Peninsula in 1994 he became inspired by the natural beauty of the area. Bold brushwork and lively color make his oils stand out. He was featured in the “Art in the Garden” TV special in July, 200l and has participated in and been an award winner in the annual Carmel Art Festival’s invitational plein air competition. Jeff has been a member of the Carmel Art Association since 1998 and has served on its Board of Directors.