In 1972, Walt Gonske made a decision that, he says, was “probably the smartest thing I ever did.” That decision-to leave illustration and New York City behind and move to Taos, New Mexico, and try his hand at fine art-changed the course of his life. It also provided art lovers with the opportunity to enjoy his incredible talent.

Walt Gonske (New Mexico)

Los Colonias
Oil
30″ By 28″
Winter cottonwoods and red willows along a Taos creek-it doesn’t get any better than this, having all of these forms and color in one composition.

Walt Gonske (New Mexico)

Placita Winter Day
Oil
30″ By 34″
The challenge here was to try to capture the glare and brilliance of a back-lit composition on snowcovered fields.