BORN: 1903, Sturgeon Bay, WI
DIED: 2003
Imaginative realist painter, Gerhard Miller first divulged his interest in art when he contracted polio at the age of twelve. He lost the ability to walk due to the disease and to pass the time, he taught himself painting by studying art books and visiting museums. During this period, Miller was occasionally instructed by Roy Mason, an artist from Batavia, New York. After multiple surgeries and hours physical therapy, Miller regained the ability to walk.
While his interest in the arts was never lost, Miller studied business administration at the University of Wisconsin in preparation to take over the family’s retail clothing business in Sturgeon Bay. Unfortunately, Miller was forced to drop out early when his father grew ill began his career in the business early. While raising his children with his first wife, Edna, Miller was determined to pursue his artistic interests. Everyday he dedicated an hour in the morning before work, a half an hour during the day, and a few hours in the evening to paint.
When Mil
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