During his years at Stockbridge Valley Central School, an increasing interest in drawing led Dean to study art, and in 1983, at the age of 23, he began a new job as Assistant to the Curator of the Syracuse University Art Collection.  Dean continued to pursue his art in the hours not spent at the university.  Entries and awards for his wildlife paintings in university art shows followed, as did a small business in hand painted ornaments, which Dean originally gave as gifts to friends.

In 1989 Dean moved from New York to Florida to work as a set decorator for television programs and commercials.  At a social function the next year, he met the Director of Product Development for a major Christmas decor and giftware manufacturer—it was an important introduction for everyone concerned.  After submitting only a dozen introductory designs for consideration, many more were requested.  Dean Griff’s Charming Tails Collection was born.

To date, Charming Tails incorporates over 1500 of Dean’s designs as delightful figurines, hanging ornaments, waterglobes and lighted houses.  The collection includes numbered limited editions, dated pieces and captioned designs perfect for gift giving to special friends on special occasions.  From his home in Florida, Dean Griff expresses his love of nature-the love he learned as a child on the farm-by creating the woodland world of Charming Tails for the thousands of collectors who have fallen in love with these endearing collectible figurines.