Ohio Life

Fresh Focus

Former TV news producer finds his heart in art.


Fourteen years ago, while shooting and producing medical segments for TV news, Duff Lindsay had an epiphany. As sweeps week — which determines ratings, and thus success in the TV business — approached, the station’s top brass wanted Lindsay to promote a health segment that promised to help viewers drop 30 pounds in 30 days.

“It was my ‘aha’ moment,” the Columbus resident recalls. “I told them, ‘This is a health segment. That’s unhealthy. No doctor will tell you that’s a good idea.’ ”

And that’s when it hit him: TV news had become more about the tease than the story. Ratings trumped serving the audience.

After 24 years in the business, Lindsay found his industry was changing. And the award-winning producer-videographer had no intention of changing along with it.

The soul-searching that ensued led Lindsay to the realization that art is what held true meaning for him.
“For years, I was preparing for this new career without even realizing it,” the 60-year-old muses.
“So, “ he adds, “when I made the decision to open my own gallery specializing in American folk art, I had already laid the groundwork. I was ready.” To read more, click here to subscribe. >>