Phil was born at Coraki, New South Wales in 1944. As a young boy and into his teens, Phil dabbled in painting. He loved water colour and tried his hand at oils. He was fortunate to have an artistic mother and she encouraged his talent.

He began his career in the artistic field when he started work for Anthony Hordens' display studio under the direction of Joe Szakaly an exceptionally talented Hungarian artist.

Phil later became Display Manager at David Jones in Parramatta. This was during the years when Department stores had large budgets for their display departments.

After moving to Coffs Harbour Phil attended college and took instruction in sculpting and firing porcelain clay. During this period, he also attended art lessons with Tom Offord, well known Australian Artist.

After moving to Manilla NSW in 2003, a major part of his work for the next 12 years was commissioned. A substantial proportion of this work was of homes and portraits, worked in charcoal and pastel.

Now retired to Ballina, he is currently working in acrylic.