Miniature painter inducted into Senior Hall of Fame

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Ed Cook, a self-taught artist of miniatures, recently was inducted into the Illinois Senior Hall of Fame for the Arts at the Executive Mansion in Springfield. Cook, 79, paints on canvases measuring 2 3/4-by-4 1/8 inches. | Sun-Times Media file photo

Updated: January 23, 2012 4:24AM

Ed Cook is a master of miniature paintings, but he lives life to the max.

The self-taught artist of miniatures recently was inducted into the Illinois Senior Hall of Fame for the Arts at the Executive Mansion in Springfield. The Illinois Department of Aging earlier this week hosted the ceremonies honoring four individuals who have excelled in community service, education, the arts and labor force.

Cook, 79, paints on canvases measuring 2 3/4-by-4 1/8 inches.

“I have been told by reputable surgeons that I would have made a very good neuro surgeon,” he said.

Cook, who grew up in Boise, Idaho, lives in Batavia. He began painting in 1980 after a successful corporate career. In 1983 he began to paint miniatures, and a year later, received the first of many awards for his artwork. His work has received critical acclaim in the United States and abroad.

He and his wife, Janice, are supporters of one another’s passions for art and music and strong believers in giving back to their community.

When Cook is not painting, he is educating the public on the art form.

Cook said he is studying for a certificate of art and illustration at Morton Arboretum.

“I have decided to branch out in botanical art,” Cook said.

When he’s not picking up the brush, he is teaching at art leagues and visiting with children in schools. He will teach two art workshops at the Morton Arboretum next spring.

Cook was inducted into the Senior Hall of Fame a day after his birthday.

“I don’t know what I’ll do for my 80th birthday,” he said.

He also is involved in the Life Long Learning Institute at Waubonsee Community College as a coordinator of social sciences and history classes, and teaches classes on the history of World War I.

“I tell people I am starting my third career,” he said.

“I have my fingers dipped here and there, and once in a while, get to dip a paint brush.”

One of his favorite things to do is introduce children to the realms of miniature art. “They are so much fun and eager,” he said.