Get to know me

How would you describe your artistic style, and what

draws you to the images you choose to paint?

I would describe my style of painting as realistic. However, over the

past fifty years I have worked in a few different styles. Since the

mid-eighties I have concentrated my efforts on highly detailed

textured images. For me, creating the illusion of surface texture

within an original, well-designed composition is very satisfying. I

enjoy making detailed paintings that communicate in some way

with the viewer.

When did you begin painting?

The first painting I completed was in my senior year of high school.

It was a portrait completed in oil. I enjoyed the process and I

seemed to have an aptitude for it.

What is your educational background?

I am a graduate of St Edmond High School. I have an AA degree from Iowa Central

Community College, a BA Degree in Art Education from the

University of Northern Iowa and an MA in Studio Art (painting) from

Minnesota State University, Mankato.

What do you most enjoy about painting?

The thing I really enjoy about painting is the attempt to produce an

original and compelling image. I like the challenge of making a self-

satisfying work that meets my initial vision.

Growing up, was your family interested in the arts?

Growing up my parents didn’t have any formal education in the arts.

My two sisters participated in dance and choir in high school. My

grandmother on my mother’s side was a self-taught artist and

painted some very nice watercolors.

Where can someone view your incredible pieces?

My work can be seen on my website rhansonwatercolors.com. You

will find various digital galleries: Life on the Streets, Landscapes,

Florals, and Italian Street Scenes.

What advice would you give to a student who is

interested in pursuing a career in art?

If art is something you would like to pursue, there are many areas

to explore. Do your research. There are many different pursuits of

study. Remember that your education does not end with your formal

training. Continue to educate yourself throughout your life. Work

hard and reinvent yourself if necessary.

What, or who, inspires you to paint?

I inspire myself. I motivate myself. I paint for myself. You can’t

paint for over fifty years and try to live up to someone else’s

expectations.

Are there particular themes, messages, or

emotions you hope viewers take away from your

work?

I hope the viewer feels some kind positive reaction to my paintings.

This is a hard thing to control. It depends on what the observer

brings to the viewing. Everyone comes to a work of art with their

own experiences, perceptions, and emotions. I make paintings that

I like. If everything