robertmathesonfineart.com
American, b. January 1, 1956
Lives and Works in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Preserving the Landscape One Canvas at A Time

I spent my childhood traveling back and forth between the city and my uncle's farm in western Minnesota and our lake place not far from the farm. Spending so much time in the country helped to instill a great love of nature and an appreciation for the beauty and peacefulness of rural areas. Being adopted I struggled to find a way to fit in. Playing sports, scouts etc. but it was art that always called to me. I much preferred drawing to homework! I was a poor student, I think I was just bored. After the service I attended the Minneapolis College of Art and Design part time for a year on the G.I. Bill. I began to wood-carve in the early 80's carving birds and fish learning how to paint them helped when I started to paint landscapes.

As luck would have it, my neighbor was Brian Stewart – a member of Plein Air Painters of America. Brian not only gave me a demonstration but also urged me to give it a try. This was a life changing event! I have been painting Plein Air ever since. I have attended a few workshops with Brian Stewart and with Stapleton Kearns. I painted on a regular basis with noted painter Bob Bonawitz and others who helped me become a better painter.Painting from life is the best teacher one can have. Kind of an old school guy, hardly ever use a camera relying on memory has been a blessing. I am convinced that in time the landscape will change so my motto is Preserving the landscape one canvas at a time I participate in gallery shows in the area on a regular basis. My work is collected nationally and I am known for my winter paintings.

I reside in Southwest Minneapolis with my wife Nancy and four dogs. My other passion is Jazz and I spend many hours listening to the greats. You can find me outside painting the creeks and farms year round. Just listen for the whistle of some jazz tune that is running through my head while painting away. I also have a page on Facebook where most of my newest works are posted. Please take a look and if you see one you like or have any questions I would love to hear from you. Thanks for taking time to visit my work.