Ken DeWaard

Ken DeWaard finds nothing more rewarding and challenging than painting under an open sky, surrounded by the scents and sounds of nature, along with its ever-changing color and harmonies.

DeWaard studied at the American Academy of Art with nationally recognized watercolorist, Irving Shapiro. Upon Irving’s recommendation DeWaard joined the acclaimed Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Art in Chicago, where he soon began studying with Scott Burdick and Dan Gehartz. It is here that Ken adapted his direct and pure approach as well as his bravura brush style, which he achieves by painting directly from life.

Strongly inspired by John Singer Sargent, Joaquin Sorolla, William Wendt, Edgar Payne, Nicolai Fechin, and the Russian Impressionists, DeWaard paints an array of subject matter from everyday life. The feelings he evokes in his paintings are due in part to the passion he feels while capturing the fleeting effects of light as well as the wonderful color nuances and harmonies presented by nature and all of her beauty.

DeWaard has won numerous awards around the country in many of the top Plein Air Competitions including the coveted Artist Choice awards, Best of Show.