Artist Spotlight: Rick Osann

"Reflections - Snow Falls Gorge" by Rick Osann pictured above.

Rick Osann is a full-time watercolor artist based in Maine. “I live in Bar Harbor, ME, right next to Acadia National Park. I've been painting occasionally since early in my college career and have started painting full time in the past two years.” His website, www.rickosann.com, showcases his artwork, exhibits, and more. 

"Morning Light" by Rick Osann pictured above.

Rick was inspired to begin creating art by his father. “My father painted watercolors while I was growing up and I loved to watch him paint. After schooling, I worked as a scenic artist, painting scenery for theatre, films and TV, but have always loved creating my own watercolor landscapes.” As an artist, he enjoys the experience and process of creating art. “Painting gives me a chance to live inside the beauty of nature that surrounds us, to spend my days exploring ways to portray light through brushes on paper. I love images with interesting color, light and shadow, especially when the sun creates strong shadows. I'm so fortunate to live in one of America's most beautiful places.” 

"Harbor Fog" by Rick Osann pictured above.

Rick’s piece, “That Low Winter Sun" is one of his favorites. “"That Low Winter Sun" is one of my recent favorites because of the warmth of the sun contrasting with the lake and the cool shadows reaching out toward us.” He enjoys depicting landscapes within his work the most. “I love to paint landscapes in watercolor to share the beauty of our area. The transparency of the color reveals the brilliance of light in nature.” 

"That Low Winter Sun" by Rick Osann pictured above.

When beginning a new project or piece, Rick is often inspired by the light in the scene he wants to paint. “My starting point is always with the quality of light when selecting a site or image to paint, what gives the sunlight a special character. I love to see sunlight filtering through trees and casting shadows across the landscape, and explore the rich color contrast that results." To aspiring artists, Rick encourages persistence and openness. “I'm still fairly new as a full-time practicing artist. The most important thing for me is to keep working, learning, improving, and sharing my work through shows, exhibits and an online presence. Feedback, criticism, and support from clients helps keep me motivated to continue improving.”

Rick found Golden State Art when looking for supplies for art shows. “I was looking for affordable materials for matting and framing my artwork for shows. Golden State offers quality materials at an affordable price that reduces my framing time and costs. Golden State Art helps me keep my work affordable for people who might not be traditional art collectors.” 

Visit the links below to connect with Rick and view more of his beautiful artwork: 

Rick’s Website: www.rickosann.com

Rick’s Instagram: @RickOsannArt

Rick’s Facebook: @RickOsannArt