For Ken Young, creating detailed pencil portraits is far more than a skill- it’s a profound way to connect people to memories and moments they cherish deeply. Each drawing captures expressions, nuances, and stories that are often lost to time, making his work both an art and a gift that transcends generations. The chance to bring families together in portraits that may never exist in real life allows Ken to offer something truly meaningful to his clients, touching them in ways words often can’t. This process not only fulfills his lifelong passion but brings him immense satisfaction in knowing he’s helped others feel connected to their loved ones in a permanent, tangible way.
Ken Young lives in Oconomowoc and has drawn hundreds of very detailed, commissioned B&W pencil drawings of people and pets for over 45 years. Ken will custom draw from your favorite photos and give you a personalized drawing that you will cherish forever. These drawings also make a great gift for that hard to find someone.
Ken was gracious enough to give the Krings Family one of these portraits as a keepsake.
Please visit his website at www.DrawingOnMemories.com.
About Ken Young
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I’ve been married to Kelly Young since 2019, and we have a one-year old Golden Retriever/Teddy Bear mix named Piper. Beautiful little girl.
Q: Please tell us about your life and what you do (whether working in our community, a business owner, volunteer, etc.). How did you choose that path?
I just retired in May of 2024 after 45 years as a graphic artist, art director, and creative director in advertising. You can still view my creative advertising work at www.YoungCreativeWorks.com.
Q: What do you love most about what you do?
I’ve been drawing portraits of people and pets for over 45 years. I think the thing I like the most is when I’ve touched someone with one of my detailed pencil drawings. Whether it’s a family member or a loving pet.
Q: What is the most rewarding part?
The fact that my portrait drawings have brought joy and happiness to so many.
Q: What are some of your future goals? Do you have anything exciting coming up that you would like to share?
Now that I’m retired, I just want to continue to draw my B&W pencil portraits, I draw about two a week.
Q: What advice would you give to someone interested in doing something similar to what you have done/are doing?
If drawing portraits is your passion, and you draw a lot – your work will improve. It’s taken me many, many years to perfect my talent and skills, and I thank God for the gift he’s given me.
Ken Young & Our Community
Q: What is your favorite thing about our community, favorite thing to do, or something unique about our community that you love? (Feel free to share as much as you’d like!)
My wife and I love Oconomowoc. Such a beautiful place to live, and so much to see and do.
Q: Do you have a favorite coffee shop, cocktail shop, or restaurant?
We frequent many Oconomowoc restaurants. Our favorites are CoCo’s, Sobie’s, and Kurts Steakhouse.
Q: What 3 words would you use to describe our community?
Beautiful, charming and friendly.
For Fun
Q: What is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
Back in the late 70’s when Elvis Presley died, I was one of the first Elvis impersonators. Long time ago now.
Q: What is your favorite book, TV show, movie, poem, or song? Why?
Don’t read books, but a few of my favorite movies are As Good As It Gets, On Golden Pond and The Wizard of Oz.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My Christian faith.
Q: If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be with? Why?
Alive or dead? The people that fascinate me the most- Jesus, Elvis, and Abe Lincoln. If they have to be living, John Mellencamp is an idol of mine.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
To learn and play guitar some day. And to visit the Holy Land.
Q: What makes you the happiest?
My wife, my son, my mom, and my dog.
Q: Any general life advice you would like to share?
Live everyday as if it were your last. And don’t sweat the small stuff.
Where to Find Ken Young
Email: info@youngcreativeworks.com
Nice To Meet You:
I believe in positively impacting my clients and the community I live in, which is why I jumped at the chance to be an ambassador with “The Faces of Lake Country”. It’s a perfect blend of why I enjoy being a Realtor with Shorewest, Realtors, and everything I love about living in Lake Country.
I truly enjoy being a part of this community and helping others along the way. Prior to real estate, I was an Office Supervisor for the City of Waukesha Park & Recreation Department. During this time, I had the opportunity to work with many business owners and serve the general public. It was there that I realized that it really does take a village to make a community great and each and every one of us plays an important role.
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