Carl Winters, Diversity of Artistic Expression
May 11 - July 2, 2008
Carl Winters is a visual artist and works with a variety of mediums from oils and acrylic on canvas and animal hides, as well as pastel, sepia and graphite on paper. His work is primarily focused on Native American themes and issues, presented at times from a social/political angle or combining symbolism with elements of cultural and historical significance. The human form has always been of interest, and in some of his recent work he has begun to study further the play of light and shadow and color relationships. His paintings are visionary and his creative process is always evolving while being rooted in his native heritage.
Each composition is approached from several perspectives in relation to technique and style, which allows him a certain amount of freedom to explore applications of color while working within established parameters of each medium. In a way, he is always challenging himself and creating an element of freshness in each piece. "I guess my work could be called contemporary yet representational, but it also includes a certain surrealistic influence too. My paintings may pose a question or make a statement to the viewer," he states.
Winters is an enrolled member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and was born January 9, 1954 at Bismarck, North Dakota. The son of a Norwegian father and Lakota mother, he grew up on the reservation outside Fort Yates, North Dakota. At an early age he began to develop an interest in both art and music, and throughout the course of his life these have become the vehicles for his creative expression.
An alumni of the Institute of American Indian Art in Santa Fe, New Mexico, he studied painting, drawing, printmaking and creative writing from 1969-1973. He remained in New Mexico and continued to pursue his creative endeavors, while holding several jobs and raising a family. In addition to formal training in the arts, he has learned more in his personal studio studies and independent research. He also credits his brother Ray Winters, who is also an accomplished artist, as an inspiration, as well as his native heritage.
Carl Winters has shown his work in various galleries, exhibits and museums across the country and has received numerous wards and commissions for his work. Most notably, he received top honors at the Northern Plains Indian Art Market, Sioux Falls, South Dakota in 1991, and a mural for the Denver International Airport in 1993.
Prices of work for sale can be obtained from The Journey Museum Store, 605-394-2201. After the exhibit closes contact Carl Winters at PO Box 3157, Taos, New Mexico 87571; tel: 505-751-7591, or email: waniyetu54@yahoo.com.
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