George Carlson
Sculptor and Painter Harrison, ID
George Carlson
Distinction: Always dedicated to the pursuit of artistic excellence above all else, Carlson created a distinguished career as a sculptor—and then, several years ago, began creating landscape paintings that continually impress both collectors and fellow artists.
What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen in the art world during your career? Artistic expression in the 1950s and 1960s was dominated by abstract expressionism, an art form I admire, and today there is room for many forms to express one’s art.
How do you define success? Success to me is always learning, finding ways to grow and become more aware as a humanist and an artist. It’s developing artistic intelligence, sympathy toward your animate subject or the landscape, along with taste and skill.
Where do you find inspiration? I find it mostly in quiet places by keeping the artistic conduit open to the world around me.
What role has Southwest Art magazine played in your career? I appreciate the articles the magazine has published about my work.
Describe yourself in one word. Receptive.
If your home or studio was on fire, what one thing would you save? I would grab an armful of the paintings I have in my studio by friends and deceased artists.
What do you hope to accomplish in the next 10 years? I want to give myself permission to explore possibilities both in ideas and materials.
Any regrets? No regrets, only appreciation.
How would you like to be remembered? I tried to do works that showed what I cared about.
Featured in “40 Prominent People” in May 2011.
