3rd Place Winning Entry, 2024 Open Competition
Hugh Greer, Barn Swallows, acrylic
Hugh Greer
Finding inspiration for his next painting, award-winning artist Hugh Greer surveys the natural beauty around him, his keen eye drawn to the right color and light, to the perfect composition. "When I'm choosing what to paint," he says, "what draws my attention is the way the light dances off a subject, light against dark, and color." Greer's love for art goes back to childhood. "I think anyone working in art today got some kind of early start with drawing," he says. "Part of the reason I was drawn to art was my dyslexia. Regular classes were difficult, but I was okay in art, so art became my path to acceptance."
Hugh Greer, Waiting for Breakfast, acrylic
Born and raised in Kansas City, Missouri, Greer had a 40-year career in architectural illustration. While attending Kansas University, he supplemented his income with architectural renderings and embellishing certificates with Old English lettering. "Throughout my career as an architectural delineator I painted in my spare time," he says, "I began making real progress with my art, and when I became involved with several galleries, I chose to leave my job and make the transition to full-time artist.
"There is usually no deep meaning influencing my art. I just want people to look at my paintings and enjoy what they see. When someone sees my work and says, 'I know where that is!' it makes me happy."
Hugh Greer, Angel’s Gate, acrylic
Asked if he had any advice for aspiring artists, Greer replied, "Art is fun but not necessarily easy. Is art your hobby or do you want to make a living with your art? If you want to earn a living with it, find your market, and spend hours and hours perfecting your craft. It's also a good idea for the public to become familiar with your name and art. One way to do this is to volunteer your artistic talent and, perhaps, even donate your art to worthy causes. Success usually will not happen overnight. You have to work, work, work!"
