Phillip Bryant, D.O.’79, is more likely to credit a short attention span than talent for his professional and personal activities, but DMU would beg to differ: A family practice physician with Mercy Johnston Medical Clinic near Des Moines, he recently had several of his paintings displayed in the University library.
“I’ve been drawing since I was a child,” says Bryant, who double majored in biology and art as an undergraduate. “It’s a really good way to alleviate stress. When I’m done with a painting, I feel relaxed.”
His display came about when Duane Murray, a DMU development officer, saw Bryant’s works in his home. The two men’s wives are in the same book club, and the Bryants were hosting the club’s holiday party; Murray connected him to the library.
Because Bryant loves to sail, most of his paintings have a nautical theme. “I enjoy the challenge of trying to depict water with oil, acrylic and watercolor paints,” he says. “It takes me away.”
Bryant also has played rhythm guitar with a local group, the 92nd Street Band, for the past 17 years.
“To me, it’s sad when I talk to people who only go to work, go home, eat dinner and go to bed,” he says. “You live only once.”
