Charles Funk draws much of his inspiration from the landscapes of Southwest Washington. Its waters, hills, and trees appear often in his paintings. In recent years, he has also spent winters in Arizona, where the landscape feels almost like nature with its coat removed—fewer trees, open spaces, and the bare bones of the earth. Both places are beautiful, and both have found their way into his work.

Charles attended ArtCenter College of Design in Los Angeles and graduated from Central Washington University with a degree in Art Education. Over the years, he has taught in public schools, worked in advertising and technical illustration for a helicopter manufacturer, and had two adventures in political cartooning.

As a member of the Chinook Tribe, he also became involved in archaeological digs. Through that work, he had the opportunity to illustrate a book for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Drawing has been part of his life for as long as he can remember. He believes one of the best tools for learning is a sketchbook, and he carries one wherever he goes. Watercolor was his primary medium for many years, but today he works mainly in oils. He also creates carvings and traditional Chinook canoe paddles.

Charles draws and paints what he sees, with a few variations thrown in.