Throughout my school years I gravitated to the fine arts. I was encouraged by fine teachers. But the dads in my neighborhood wore suits and carried briefcases on their way to catch the morning train. None of these dads were heading to a day at the studio. Years later, I pursued a similar career. In my case, I manage an engineering company.
The term "Sunday painter" describes an earnest, unschooled painter. For years I was an "August painter": every August on our family vacation to Maine, I would unpack the watercolor set, paint in every spare moment, and pack things up until the next August. Invariably, I was absorbed in the act of painting and, from time to time, a fine painting would result. I came back August after August.
Now I paint every day. It is now more than a pastime. I am absorbed as ever.