BRIAN MCALLISTER
Birds have consistently had a presence in my life, for as far back as I can remember. Some of my earliest memories are sitting in my grandfather’s studio, watching him carve realistic waterfowl from simple blocks of wood. It feels as if I have inherited his attention to detail in my process of creating art.
One of the most fascinating aspects of painting to me is creating an illusion. As a young artist, I was always drawn to realistic art. The more I painted, the more I began to appreciate the presence of brush strokes. It gives a painting life. Instead of hiding the brush strokes, a viewer can experience the action taken by the artist made to bring an image to life. Finding a balance between mark-making and realism is a delicate balance that is unique to each painter.
Spending time outdoors is important for feeding one’s soul. Having experienced the shutdown of COVID, I find myself needing this time even more. If we are lucky, we get to share this time with local wildlife. The purpose behind these paintings is to take a moment and appreciate the little things we have around us, the simple things.
"Poise" Acrylic on Wood 24” x 48”
"Poise" (Detail) Acrylic on Wood 24” x 48”
"Pete’s Pot" Acrylic on Canvas 24” x 48”
"Pete’s Pot" (Detail) Acrylic on Canvas 24” x 48”
"Pete’s Pot" (Detail) Acrylic on Canvas 24” x 48”
"Resilience" Acrylic on Canvas 24” x 48”
"Resilience" (Detail) Acrylic on Canvas 24” x 48”
"Resilience" (Detail) Acrylic on Canvas 24” x 48”