Category: In The Artist's Studio

Passing the Brush: Artists on Their Inspirations

At Merritt Gallery, we’re always curious about what (and who) inspires the artists we work with. We asked a few of them to share their favorite artists — from legendary figures who first sparked their love of art to the contemporary creators who keep them inspired today. Read on for a fun look at how creative influences connect across time and style.

 

Randal Ford

 

“My two favorite artists of all time are Richard Avedon and Norman Rockwell. Both have been influential in my work in different regards. I love Avedon’s elegant simplicity and soulful portrayal of blue-collar workers to celebrities and business tycoons. And I adore Norman Rockwell’s idealistic portrayal of Americana, his composition, color and humor.”

 

Randal Ford, Upside Down Sloth, Photograph on aluminum, 40 x 40 inches

Learn more about Randal Ford

 

Shivani Dugar

 

“Gerhard Richter is a strong favorite. And from my home country, V.S. Gaitonde. Both do inspire my work and I LOVE their work! Also since I was a little girl – Claude Monet.”

 

Shivani Dugar, Twilight Tides, Oil on canvas, 48 x 60 inches

Learn more about Shivani Dugar

 

Liz Barber

Anselm Kiefer, Nachricht vom Fall Trojas (News of the Fall of Troy). Photo by Paul Gallo, 2009. Licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

 

“Anselm Kiefer is an all-time favorite of mine. His paintings feel bigger than life. He creates another world in his pieces that feel like one could walk right into. It’s an immersive experience. His paintings are layered with texture and materials not normally found in paintings.”

 

Liz Barber, First Spring Bloom, Mixed media on canvas, 48 x 72 inches

Learn more about Liz Barber