In his early years, Al's artist mother's teaching, influence and encouragement to pursue art, largely shaped his appreciation and ultimately participation in the arts. The experience of being a cattleman, outdoorsman, combat veteran, sailor, businessman, and student of life, have all affected Al's desire to express his feelings through art. Having worked in several mediums; oils, his major method of expression, best suits his being both an "on location" and an "in studio" painter.