California
John White, A Gathering of Color, oil, 24 x 24.
What inspired your winning entry? I’ve always wanted to create a koi painting because I am so drawn to their color, movement, and how they gather in varying formations. I am also intrigued by how some of them stay at the surface and others are deep in the water. I wanted to capture the range and brilliance of the color and the shapes created by their interactions.
How would you describe your style? My style is a combination of realism and impressionism, with the idea of trying to push color as much as possible to try to match the beauty of the scene that is in front of me.
If you weren’t an artist, what would you be? I’ve been involved with art for my entire life, but this is really my fourth career. I started as a graphic designer, then became the owner of a design firm, and now I am also a full-time faculty member at Otis College of Art and Design. I’ve always been able to follow my passions and ended up finding painting in this late stage of my life as the most rewarding career yet.
What’s the most meaningful recognition you’ve received for your artwork? The peer recognition I’ve received in the form of acceptance into prestigious painting competitions in Carmel, CA, and Telluride, CO, for three years in a row.
Where did you study art? I attended Art Center College of Design and many painting workshops.
What galleries represent your work? www.johnwhitestudios.com
This story was featured in the December 2018 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art December 2018 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story.
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