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Wildhorse Gallery |
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Artist ProfileBruce Burks |
 Tack Room |
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In his still life paintings, Bruce Burks focuses on the precise description of objects from everyday life and the meticulous expression of the surface qualities of these objects. His subject matter ranges from fishing gear to horse blankets and bridles, birds of prey, and children’s toys. The expression of objects much used and loved, enhanced by the warmth and precision imparted by the medium of egg tempera, are compelling aspects of the artist’s paintings. Growing up in Casper, Wyoming, Burks lived close to the earth and its creatures. His boyhood activities included hunting, fishing, exploring nature, ancient Indian ruins and prehistoric sites where dinosaurs once roamed. The sense of connection with the earth and the creatures we share the planet with can be seen and felt in every painting by Bruce Burks. Leaving Wyoming to attend college in California, Burks discovered art and falconry. At Moorpark Junior College in Simi Valley, an art appreciation class awakened his love for art. He furthered his education and transferred to San Fernando State College where he studied design and the aspects of falconry. As a member of the National American Falconry Association, Burks is an advocator in helping rebuild and preserve endangered falcon populations. It is this commitment to falconry that has helped in his commitment to his art. His life experiences, his love of nature, the outdoors, boyhood experiences of hunting, fishing and exploring all come into play in his paintings. |
