Archives for Portrait

Making Music

Making Music

November 27, 2011 | by

Nancy Guzik loves nothing more than the challenge of capturing—and conveying—the beauty she finds in a face or a flower, a teacup, or a tree. That she more than meets that challenge is apparent in the many awards her paintings have earned and the many prestigious collections throughout the world that include her work. Nancy Guzik (New Hampshire) Peony Tea Oil 11″ By 14″ In this fanciful composition and color harmony, I get the chance to play with making flowers look like delicate peonies, and teacups feel like real china-magical! Nancy Guzik (New Hampshire) Creativity Oil 16″ By 12″ In
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Keeping The Adventure Alive

Keeping The Adventure Alive

September 27, 2011 | by

Dan Beck was justifiably pleased when one of his paintings earned a Gold Medal Award at the Oil Painters of America Show in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, in June. It was the latest in a long list of honors for the talented artist. While he admits that he enjoys the recognition, he keeps things in perspective. Dan Beck (Colorado) Vania In White Oil 20″ By 10″ For me, there is such a mystique and energy to this beauty. Dan Beck (Colorado) A Warm Breeze Oil 36″ By 24″ There was something noble and connected about this model. I wanted to show
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The Excitement Continues

The Excitement Continues

September 27, 2011 | by

David Halbach readily admits that what drove his initial interest in art when he was a young boy was a bit of sibling rivalry. His older brother, he says, loved to draw trains and, upon showing them to his parents, would receive glowing reviews and a pat on the head. “I wanted a little of that praise, too, so I started drawing,” Halbach says. David Halbach (California) Track Inspectors Watercolor 21″ By 29″ Totally baffled, these Indians have watched the white men uproot the soil, lay wood, then hard cold material. With all having left save the wood and cold
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Historical Inspiration

Historical Inspiration

September 27, 2011 | by

Born and raised in Carthage, Missouri, population 14,000, 53 years later Andy Thomas still calls the small town home. He is living proof that you can find success and personal fulfillment without straying far from your own backyard. Andy Thomas (Missouri) Johnny Saved The Girl Oil 40″ X 30″ Cowboy lore tells us to help the unfortunate, punish the bad guys, and save the girl. Andy Thomas (Missouri) You Can Call Me Darlin’ Oil 30″ By 24″ A worldly, wise saloon girl has won the affections of a naïve cowboy.
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Memory Keeper

Memory Keeper

July 27, 2011 | by

Tong Luo is living out his dream of studying technique and art history in New York City. But following his passion has come with a price. His family is far away, living in China. Although he is sometimes lonely, Luo tries to stay focused, knowing that he is doing what he needs to do, not only for himself, but for his family. Tong Luo (Canada) Snow Valley Oil 30″ By 30″ I saw this girl on a snowy day. Although she is only 6 years old, she has to fetch water every day. Tong Luo (Canada) Nomadic Girl Oil 30″
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It’s Got to Come From the Soul

It’s Got to Come From the Soul

July 27, 2011 | by

It wasn’t a typical phone call for a guy who paints cowboy art. The caller was a representative for George Lucas-yes, that George Lucas, the producer of “Star Wars” fame—who was soliciting art samples for an upcoming book in which Lucas wanted his legendary characters depicted imaginatively in different genres. As Idaho artist Nelson Boren talked to the caller, he pondered the assignment with his usual wit. Nelson Boren (Idaho) Flowers Don’t Lie Watercolor 14″x14″ I’ve always loved the contrast between rough leather and soft flowers. Most cowboys I know are rough on the outside, but have soft hearts. Nelson
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A Successful Gamble

A Successful Gamble

May 27, 2011 | by

I think the Lord gives you talent,but you have to sacrifice. You have to pay your dues.” So says Jim Norton, who did indeed pay his dues as he followed his dream of becoming an artist. He studied, he painted when he was dog tired after working a full-time job to support his growing family and, with the support of his wife Pam, he gambled on his talent taking him where he wanted to go. Jim Norton (Utah) Maza Waken Oil 52″ By 40″ Maza Waken was the name the Sioux gave the gun. They believed it was a very
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You Do What You Have To Do

You Do What You Have To Do

May 27, 2011 | by

Life hasn’t always been easy for Joan Potter, but it has been good. How, you might be wondering, can that be? Like other artists we have featured within the pages of this magazine, Potter struggled early in her career, but her talent, combined with her determination, has resulted in both professional, and personal, fulfillment. Joan Potter (New Mexico) Jodi Oil 14″ By 14″ I asked Jodi to sit for me, because I always thought she had a wonderful look, much like an Indian. Joan Potter (New Mexico) Peonies Oil 24″ By 22″ No other flowers are as sensual for me.
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If There’s No Passion, There’s No Power

If There’s No Passion, There’s No Power

March 27, 2011 | by

Carrie Ballantyne the woman is best described as a free spirit. Carrie Ballantyne the artist is best described as incredibly talented. Carrie Ballantyne (Wyoming) Bronc Rider – Circa 1980 Oil 24″ By 14.5″ This particular rodeo cowboy from the 1980s had a ranching background. His style and attitude made painting his portrait a must. But more than his personality, it was a mood I was after in this painting. Carrie Ballantyne (Wyoming) Buckaroo GQ Oil 20″ By 13″ The Great Plains buckaroos have always had a stylish flair in their particular attire and gear.
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The Magical Human Form

The Magical Human Form

March 27, 2011 | by

Bryce Cameron Liston will be the first to tell you, unabashedly, that he is a self-taught artist. He\’Wll also tell you that the distinction has disadvantages and advantages. Bryce Cameron Liston (Utah) …And Everything Nice Oil 24″ By 16″ This piece is the first in a series of paintings I’ve done portraying the act of a woman getting ready. So much thought and time goes into a woman’s appearance, unlike men, who just put on some pants and a shirt and are ready to go. For women, it’s almost more of a ceremonial ritual, one that I find intriguing and
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