Police officer paints as a way to de-stress from intense days on the job

When Jeff Simpson started painting nearly a decade ago, he had no idea it would soon become one of his greatest passions, and an outlet for his career on the front lines of policing.

“It was just an art form I wanted to try, and I just brought some paint and a canvas home, and I painted a palm tree I think,” Simpson said.

As he continued to paint Simpson said he was drawn towards creating abstract pieces or art.

Now in his 17th-year with the Ottawa Police Service, Simpson said painting has become a way for him to de-stress from intense days on the job.

“We see things that unfortunately, we wouldn't wish anyone to see, and this is an outlet for me.”

Now the officer is about to go public with his talent. On Saturday, December 3rd, he will host with first art show called 'The First Look'.

The show is scheduled to start at 6:30p.m. at Bar Gusto on 81 Clarence St.

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  Simpson said painting has become a way for him to de-stress from intense days on the job.

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  Ottawa police officer Jeff Simpson's artwork will be on display for the first time in the 10 years he's been painting on canvas.

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  After years of painting in private, Simpson will be revealing his art to the public for the first time, with an art show in Ottawa called 'The First Look.'