“As an impressionist landscape painter, I find my inspiration in the beauty of Colorado’s mountain streams and Southwest skies. When I paint, I try to convey both the visual essence of the scenery and my emotional connection with the land. I want to invite the viewer to experience the same peace and contentment I feel when painting, and possibly, to find their own story within the landscape.
By intentionally leaving certain details open to interpretation, I encourage viewers to actively engage with the artwork. Working primarily with palette knives and paint scrapers, I build up my paintings layer by layer. Through the additive process, I explore texture, color, and mark-making.
My hope is that my paintings transport viewers to the serene and awe-inspiring landscapes of Colorado, enabling them to pause, reflect, and find solace in the beauty that surrounds us.”
Andrew currently resides in Arvada, Colorado. He finds his artistic inspiration in the breathtaking landscapes that surround him. Embracing the “plein air” tradition, he ventures out to paint smaller works on location, capturing the essence of the Colorado scenery. For his larger pieces, Andrew uses the sketches and photographs created during his explorations and brings the scenes to life in his studio.
Drawing on a range of palette knives and paint scrapers, Andrew employs loose and expressive marks in his paintings, creating a distinct texture and visual interest. He meticulously adds layer upon layer to his artwork, and then skillfully scrapes back into the work, resulting in captivating depth and complexity.
Andrew’s artistic journey began with a solid foundation in both Math and Art, earning degrees from Calvin University. He received classical training in representational art, honing his skills in drawing and painting with a focus on realism. During this time, he even shared his expertise by teaching portraiture. However, his move to the Southwest ignited a transformative shift in his style, propelling him from realism into the heart of Impressionism.
Over the past several years, Andrew dedicated himself to developing his loose, energetic style, seeking guidance from various landscape and plein air painters. While he has been engaged in the art world for decades, he considers himself at the beginning of his professional artistic journey. Despite this, his artwork has already found a home in the collections of private art enthusiasts throughout the United States.
Paintings
Three Horizons, Moab
The skyline west of the Rockies is like nowhere else in this country. Pillars of red stone stand scattered through the land. The Rockies tower blue above them. My children groan as I get out of the car for yet another picture.
Monument Canyon
On the western slope of Colorado, the landscape begins to look a bit more like Moab. The hanging canyons of Colorado National Monument are stunning.
Chautauqua Trail
I sometimes forget how beautiful Boulder can be. Today, I went hiking in Chautauqua park. I didn’t get very far up the trail before deciding to paint. With all the rain this year, the colors were on full display.
Open Space in the Fall
Walking the open spaces centers me. Nature helps put things in perspective. I’m so thankful for these pockets of calm in our community. Pearce Park
Surrounded by Color
One of the iconic views of Golden–looking West from the bridge on Washington. Even after years of painting it, this view doesn’t get old.
Morning Vigil
Cradling my morning coffee in my hands, I sit by the mountain stream watching the sun slowly paint the rock face orange and red. Hay creek, near the Twin Eagles trailhead.
Clear Creek, Golden
One of the iconic views of Golden–looking West from the bridge on Washington. Even after years of painting it, this view doesn’t get old.
Dry Gulch
This gulch is a small walk from the Eastern entrance. Pinyon juniper and sage brush seem to grow from the rocks themselves: Colorado National Monument
