Artist Curt Mattson grew up immersed in cowboy culture and for many years, that was going to be his path. Then he discovered cowboy and Western art, and he saw it as a gateway to help preserve the stories of the American West. Decades later, storytelling still drives Curt’s artwork.
Author: di_admin
Art Discovery: Realism Revealed
Some works of art invite a second look to determine if it’s a painting or if it’s real. The trompe l’oeil style of painting creates an optical illusion of three-dimensional space and objects on a two-dimensional surface. Discover the inspiration and techniques artists Jenny Stewart, Barbara Rudolph and Robin Damore implore to imbue these works with life.
Meet the Artist: For the Love of Wood
Sculpture artist Brian Sykes fell in love with woodworking at a young age. He began his career in furniture design, but soon found he craved something that would allow him a wider range of creativity. Brian found his way to a woodturning lathe and he knew instantly, that’s where he belonged. See how Brian’s journey progressed…
Art Discovery: Nature Calls
Wildlife and nature have been the muse of artists for centuries. Wildlife artists capture the sensation of being close to nature and allow us to bring it home. Discover some of the wild stories behind these works of art and how artists Cathy Sheeter and Trevor Swanson bring them to life.
Meet the Artist: Capturing the Soul of the Desert Southwest Through a Modern Lens
For oil artist Tina Roy, it all leads back to the desert. Though she spent years traveling abroad, she discovered a deep connection with the desert southwest––the flora, the fauna, the intense storms, and the juxtaposition of life and death that’s omnipresent in the desert…
Art Discovery: Multi-Dimensional Jewelry
Jewelry is art in the wearable form. These miniature sculptures are constructed from a variety of materials often combining carving, weaving, metalsmithing, and stone placement. Hear from our multi-talented jewelers Diana Ferguson, Chad Lieske and Cynthia Downs about their processes and tools of the trade.
Meet the Artist: How a Fascination with Beads Evolved Into an Artistic Career
Artist Diana Ferguson had long been drawn to beads, but it wasn’t until she discovered the ancient peyote stitch technique that her creativity really flourished. This technique kickstarted what would become a line of beautifully crafted architectural jewelry. And it has since evolved into wall art.
Art Discovery: Mixing of Media
There is an art to mixing various media to create complete and comprehensive works of art. Learn how artists Mari Giddings-Axton, Myron Whitaker and Timothy Weldon decide which elements to combine as they build their inspirational works of art.
Meet the Artist: The Need to Heal Brought Light Hunter to Photography
For photography artist Light Hunter, nature called to him at a young age. It became his refuge and place that deeply nourished his soul. He soon found himself photographing these natural wonders as a way to bring their meditative qualities to others. Learn more about his journey and how he was the first to photograph some of the most iconic canyons.
Art Discovery: Architecture and Art Influence
Art and architecture have influenced each other throughout time. Hear from artists Ryan Schmidt and Carlos Page, and architect Craig Wickersham about the interplay between art and architecture. Discover how art can enhance the architectural elements of a home or building.