Minnesota
Shalese Sands, Soul Fire, acrylic, 24 x 18.
Art Education: I’ve drawn since I could hold a pencil. I have a bachelor’s degree in studio art from the University of Northwestern in St. Paul, MN.
Style: Realism. I’ve always been interested in wildlife and equine art. My goal is to achieve that sense of awe and beauty of the sublime in all my paintings.
Creative Spark: Animals have always been my source of inspiration. I’ve been fortunate to travel to places like Africa and Yellowstone National Park. I think it’s important as a wildlife artist to find ways to study and observe your subject matter.
Other Passions: I thoroughly enjoy taking my reference photos.
Best Advice Received: Do what you love as an artist. Trends and styles come and go.
Favorite Studio Music: I listen to everything from instrumental music to Christian rock. I tend to put my earbuds in when I’m in the studio, put my music on shuffle, and let the hours fly by.
Favorite Work by Another Artist: My top three favorite artists are Daniel Smith, Carl Brenders, and Robert Bateman.
Future Goals: Currently I’m working as a full-time receptionist and spending my free time at night and on weekends pursuing my art career. My goal is to become a full-time artist. It’s my dream, and I’m willing to put in as much work as it takes to make it a reality.
Price Range: $300 to $9,000.
Representation: Tabora Gallery, Honolulu, HI; James Krom Natural Images, Rochester, MN;
www.shalesesands.com.
This story was featured in the September 2019 issue of Southwest Art magazine. Get the Southwest Art September 2019 print issue or digital download now–then subscribe to Southwest Art and never miss another story.
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