Richard Bednar - Artist in the Spotlight

      "Whether it was to escape classroom boredom or standout among the crowd, creativity has always been there in my life.  I started drawing in my teens and moved on to painting before going off to college for a degree in studio art.  I realized very quickly that I was probably not going to make a living in art so it became my avocation.  My real job afforded me time to pursue art on the weekends.  
     I have worked in many mediums but have settled on oil paints.  My subject matter ranges from landscapes to people, still lifes and pets.  As a pet lover I suppose I enjoy painting them the most.  
     I try to paint in a realistic style as it simplifies things.  If I put the right amount of paint, color in the right location then I have done the subject justice and provided some "truth" to the art.  Being able to draw and paint is an incredible gift and I am grateful for it on a daily basis."  - Richard Bednar