Art Chowder July | August 2016, Issue 4 | Page 11

Can you tell us a little about any upcoming exhibits that you are looking forward to? I have a painting on my easel every day when I’m in my studio. Upcoming shows, auctions and exhibits such as the Oil Painters of America National & Regional Shows of which I am a Master Signature Member are always on my calendar, so I’m always busy painting. I have the Cheyenne Frontier Days Western Art Show Sale coming up in Wyoming in July and I have five new pieces that I am exhibiting. The Cheyenne Frontier Days is always a great event and this one will be no different. What is the name and location of the favorite place you have exhibited your work? There are many show locations that I have enjoyed. I enjoyed the Peppertree Ranch Art Show in the Santa Ynez Valley, California and the Buffalo Bill Art Show in Cody, Wyoming. I believe an Old West mystique lends itself well to the ambience of a great show. What is your favorite childhood memory? As a young boy with a brother and a sister I had many good memories. As far as I knew, I wanted for nothing. My parents were great parents who instilled a solid work ethic in us. As a family we believed in the adage “Live well. Laugh often. Love much.” Are there certain subjects that you are particularly drawn to for inspiration? I like the drama of high adventure. That’s why I have chosen to paint the Old West. Nighttime gun fights; horse thieves being chased by the law and Indians charging over a hill are all fun challenges. Quiet subjects like Indian camp scenes, cowboys on a mesa, or single portraits are different, but just as satisfying to paint. Is there anything you wish was different in the art world? I wish patrons could focus a little more on living artists than dead ones. Patrons buy art as an investment, that is understood, however many current lesser-known artists are struggling in this economy and their works are just as timeless. Would you consider yourself to be a social person? I’m social when I have a social event to attend. Creating a painting is a very solitary occupation. I do not have time for interruptions during my workday. It’s all about focus. That being said when I attend a show it gives me a chance to breathe some fresh air and catch up with my artist friends and patrons. July |August 2016 11