Paul Combs

Paul Combs is a storyteller at heart—only his stories arrive in pencil, ink, and paint. A retired Firefighter/EMT Lieutenant, Paul spent 30 years serving his community of Bryan, Ohio. Today, combining his love of service and a life-long pursuit of artistic experiences fuel his creative work, giving his art both humor and heart. An award-winning illustrator, cartoonist, and fine artist, Paul has built a reputation for capturing life’s most meaningful moments with wit and warmth. As the editorial cartoonist for Fire Engineering Magazine, he blends sharp insight with humor to reflect the realities and culture of the fire service. He is also the illustrator behind the bestselling children’s book series Sprinkles the Fire Dog, where his bold style brings stories of leadership, bravery, and friendship to life for young readers. Beyond the canvas, Paul travels the world as a USO volunteer entertainer, using his talent as a caricature artist to bring joy and laughter to America’s active-duty service members and wounded warriors. Whether in a hospital ward or a faraway base, his art becomes a bridge—lifting spirits and sparking conversation. Paul and his wife, Sheryl, are also the co-owners of Gallery 317–a decorative gallery representing regional artists and showcasing their incredible talent in a beautifully renovated Italianate home built in 1874. Now, Paul is turning his focus toward whimsical animal drawings and paintings, celebrating nature’s brilliance with a lighthearted touch–combining his love for realistic pencil drawing, cartooning, pen and ink, and painting. He invites viewers to pause, smile, and reconnect with the simple wonder of the natural world.