Phil has always had an eye for art. His talent for painting was noted while at school by his art teacher Nigel Thompson - winner of the Archibald 1997. With Nigel's assistance Phil was accepted into art school in 1973 although for financial stability he opted for a plumbing apprenticeship. He travelled to Europe and the Middle east in 1978 and spent years up in the Kimberley and islands off the coast. He started painting again while living in Broome 1990 and was accepted into art school (Northbridge and Claremont ) studying a Diploma of Fine Arts. Phil sold his first large canvas in 1992 and has continued creating works of art since. Having resided in rural Margaret River since January 1996, Phil continues to paint today in the beautiful surroundings of his studio.