About Dustin Curtis, artist

Dustin Curtis was born in Alabama on October 7th, 1970. He has been an artist since a very early age, following other artists in his family. His grandfather was a talented woodworking artist and there are several musicians in his family. Dustin has been drawing since he was very young and this foundation of drawing over many years has solidified his techniques for drawing and painting detailed, realistic wildlife and nature art. He won his first drawing competition at the age of 14 with a drawing of a red-tailed hawk. He has won many awards and completed many commissions over the years. His paintings always start with a drawing, so the drawing is important for the realistic type of art he creates. The creative process also involves spending time in the field researching, sketching, and taking photographs.

Growing up hunting and exploring outdoors also influenced Dustin’s path toward wildlife and nature art. He enjoys the process of research and time in the field as much as the painting. His goal is to inspire others by causing them to look closer and be more thankful for the creation that inspires him.

Dustin did not go to school to become an artist; he says he has always been an artist. “It never occurred to me that I needed to go to college to become an artist. I had the opportunity to get an art scholarship, but I didn’t feel the need or desire. I’m not saying there is anything wrong with going to school to help learn how to paint or draw or sculpt, etc., but these are just the technicalities of being an artist. Many people can learn these, but being an artist is in your soul. I’ve seen many fine artists who spent many years in school and then working as commercial or graphic design artists before becoming fine artists. I didn’t do that. I have no regrets about that. I don’t know who coined the phrase “self-taught artist”, but to me it is irrelevant because I don’t believe someone can teach another person to be an artist. All artists are self-taught. Some may have gone to school or college and gotten degrees and others may have spent time out in the woods or in the studio, but we’re all self-taught.”

A major part of Dustin’s art is the study and research that goes into a painting. The photography, study and research are necessary but they are one part of the process that Dustin enjoys most. Dustin says, “I enjoy the research and reference photography as much as the painting. In my opinion, to really portray nature and wildlife you have to see and experience it first hand, and then communicate what you see through painting.”

Dustin currently resides in Decatur, Alabama with his wife and two children. He makes frequent trips to local areas such as Joe Wheeler Wildlife Refuge and the Smoky Mountains in Gatlinburg, TN for inspiration and research. Planned trips include Yellowstone National Park and Alaska.

Website: www.dcurtisfineart.com

Email: dcfineart@bellsouth.net