Greg Brown

Greg Brown

Oct 23, 1951 - Aug 29, 2014

Gregory Douglas Brown was born in Pittsburgh, Pa. on October 23, 1951. The son of KRON News Anchorman Art Brown, he was moved to Palo Alto at an early age, and at age 13 began an apprenticeship with Italian painter Roberto Lupetti, who taught him techniques of tromp l'oeil ("trick of the eye") painting. He graduated from Palo Alto High School in 1969, and at age 24, he became Palo Alto's first Artist in Residence; it was at this time that he began the fanciful "Palo Alto Pedestrian" series of murals in the city's downtown. Later, he would start a business, Whitney Hopter Graphics, which primarily sold posters and greeting cards featuring "vacationing vegetables." His many drawings, paintings, murals, and posters are located internationally, and can be viewed at www.artofgregbrown.com. In 2007, he was named "Artist of the Year" for the 11th California State Senate District.

Greg's love of people, of all different characters, was the chief inspiration for his art. His sense of humor was treasured by all who knew him.

After a brief bout with cancer, Greg died surrounded by his loved ones on August 29. He is survived by his loving family: his wife, Julie; his daughter, Whitney; his son, Justin, and daughter-in-law, Kari; and his brothers Scott and Jeff and their families.

A Public Celebration of Greg's Life will be held at the Palo Alto Art Center on October 26th at 2:00 p.m. Donations may be made to the Palo Alto Art Center Foundation.