Introduced to the general public in the mid 1990s, the Precor M9.1 Precision Electronic Treadmill featured a microprocessor-regulated motor control system, Manual and Interval modes and various factory-programmed courses. Originally designed to provide home-users with a comfortable workout, John Kilduff — a Los Angeles-based artist who'd studied at The Groundlings, Los Angeles City College, the Otis/Parsons Art Institute, and received an MFA in Fine art from UCLA — had something different in mind for the device.
In 2001, "Let's Paint TV" began broadcasting live on Los Angeles Public Access television. Episodes centered around Kilduff’s painting practice, which consisted of a variety of activities — taking calls from viewers, motivational speaking, cooking, playing ping pong and concocting “blended drinks” — all while running on a treadmill in a paint-stained Brooks Brothers suit. At times, the broadcasts were accompanied by psychedelic visual effects, live bands and prank callers.
Despite the humor and outsider aesthetics, Kilduff insists "Let’s Paint TV" is primarily about inspiring creativity in others. Kilduff’s optimism, energy and honesty have attracted a sizable cult following, with recognition by LA Weekly, The Village Voice, The Tyra Banks Show and America's Got Talent. The last episode of "Let's Paint TV" on live cable access was filmed in 2008, shortly before the Public Access Studios in Los Angeles shut down.
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