FINE ART BACKGROUND
Brian spends a tremndous amount of time photographing, sketching and
observing various bird species. Background props are either collected
fresh or photographed for authentic renditions.
To refine his artistic talent, Brian augments field research with a study
of intricate bird anatomy.
Study skins are loaned to Brian by the Denver Museum of Natural History
and the American Museum of Natural History in New York. When painting,
a study skin is always on hand to ensure plumage accuracy. He literally
paints with a study skin in one hand and a paint brush in the other.
Designs of his life-sized renditions of North American birds are done
in a vignette format, as he prefers the sharp focus and clean design
obtained with this technique. Although he limits background art,
it is always an integral element in the entire design concept.
The use of colored painting surfaces enhance the vignette format,
and these museum-quality boards are 100 percent rag and acid free.
Gouche, an opaque watercolor medium, is well suited for his
powerful yet soft painting style. This medium provides a powerful
effect--superb for detailing and capturing the softness of a
bird's plumage.
First hand knowledge of the birds that he paints is essential to the
authenticity of his paintings, writing and photography. He has
traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Formal art training in design and illustration was gained at the
Paier College of Art, Hamden, Connecticut from 1975 to 1978.
The Douglas Gallery, Stamford, Connecticut, October 1987:
One-person show celebrating the publication of A Field Guide to Hawks of North America.
Roger Tory Peterson and William S. Clark were present for a book signing gala.
Eleven of fifteen original paintings sold on opening day.
The Douglas Gallery, Stamford, Connecticut, October 1979:
One-person show. All 16 original paintings sold on opening day to a
major corporation.
The Different Drummer Gallery, Hartford, Connecticut, October 1977:
One-person show. Several original paintings sold.
Chippewa Nature Center, Midland, Michigan 1977:
A 4' x 5' full background oil painting on masonite, depicting
the extinct Passenger Pigeon and Michigan habitat of the mid-1800s,
was commissioned by the Chippewa Nature Center as a permanent display
in the main lobby.
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