Canada
What inspired your winning entry? The elegance of this beautiful Andalusian horse in the ready position before the rider and the horse display their synchronicity in the discipline of dressage. I intentionally cut off the full view of the female rider in order to direct your attention to the horse. This was done so it would not personalize the painting and would encourage all dressage riders to imagine themselves in that saddle.
If you weren’t an artist, what would you be? I would be an artisan in wood and plaster, creating architectural masterpieces in buildings and homes. I just finished renovating our entire house, building and designing our custom kitchen and four bathrooms from scratch.
What’s the most meaningful recognition you’ve received for your artwork? My association with groups like Artists for Conservation and the Society of Animal Artists is especially significant, as these fellowships for like-minded artists doing great work and fulfilling an important role in conservation are very special.
Where did you study art? I am mostly self-taught, but I did attend the Ontario College of Art and Design for a short period before starting to sell my work professionally.
How did you first get interested in art? I started off very early sketching birds and animals, which have been my primary interest to paint ever since.
What inspires you to paint a scene? The sheer beauty of an animal or a setting can be the reason, or to tell a story of something historic, or for a conservation message.
What galleries represent your work? Settlers West Galleries, Tucson, AZ; Trailside Galleries, Jackson, WY; Westmount Gallery, Etobicoke, Ontario.
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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The post Artistic Excellence 2018 | First Place: Bruce Lawes appeared first on Southwest Art Magazine.