John Mellencamp Began His Art Career in His Family’s Indiana Basement

The singer-songwriter learned to paint by watching his mother do so every day. After a move to New York to study art, he ended up snagging a record deal.

By

John Mellencamp, 66, is a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter who has recorded 23 albums, including his latest, “Sad Clowns & Hillbillies” (Republic). His solo art exhibit at New York’s ACA Galleries opens April 26. He spoke with Marc Myers.

I was supposed to be named Slate. My dad’s older brother, Joe, picked it out. He was a college football star and a handsome guy. He thought it would be cool.

But...