Charlie Clingman was raised in spacious rural settings with animals and horses to ride. This planted a seed for exploration and an appreciation of nature. Charlie finds that 19 years of surfing experience spent in California, Hawaii, the Caribbean, Central America, Africa and Europe have not only been a great thrill and good exercise but a fine way to observe the water and surrounding landscapes. He seeks to represent the beauty and action he encounters.

During 1995 in Europe, Charlie was commissioned to paint a 700sq. ft. mural representing a picturesque village and surrounding ocean. The mural located in the village center was a statement and reflection of the peoples pride in their beautiful setting. Inspired young villagers organized the first beach clean up in their area. The joyful enthusiasm of the towns people changed Charlie's view on the importance of art. He then decided to direct his course of study from Architecture to Art. Painting has since become his focus.

Charlie holds a passion for natural dynamics. He feels studying from life (plein air/painting outdoors) is essential. "...I am trying to observe things found in nature... colors and shapes... sometimes you just can't believe it..." he explains, "...I try to keep an open mind... you never know where you will find inspirations."