Finally, he settled in Los Angeles, California and his career as an illustrator, commercial artist, and teacher began.

Henninger also worked in the film industry, providing illustrations and set designs for Vincent Korda, Selznick Studios, Walt Disney, United Artists, MGM, and Columbia.

Throughout his career years, Henninger continued to create fine art, including paintings in oil, acrylic and, primarily, watercolor.

"American Artist" Magazine recognized Joseph Morgan Henninger as "...one of the most influential watercolorists of the latter half of the twentieth century."

(from the California Art Club Newsletter, June/July 1999) Joseph's beloved wife, Danica, followed him in death on January 23, 2004 at age 94.