Randy VanBeek was raised in the Pacific Northwest. As a child he exhibited exceptional artistic talent with a specific interest in drawing. After graduating from high school Randy pursued no formal art training. During that period, abstract and expressionism was the trend for most art colleges. Randy's interest was always traditional realism, so he sought out his own education. Living near Western Washington University gave him access to their extensive art library where he studied and practiced the techniques of his favorite master artists.
Most of his attention was focused on the 18th century Dutch and Austrian masters, and the 19th century American painters, particularly the Hudson River School group. His work has evolved into a truly unique style truly, but the influence of the masters is evident. He uses many of the glazing techniques or transparent layers of colors. Light creates an optical illusion and depth when it travels through the layers of color. The eye blends the color rather than light reflecting off the surface.
Randy enjoys a broad range of subjects and painting styles. "I don't want to limit myself to a theme in subjects, or a repetitive formula in techniques. I need to continually challenge myself. I think the creative mind is one of God's most fascinating gifts. I see it as a responsibility to explore and develop my gift, but mostly to share what I've created. Art, music, and literature can elevate our spirit, providing relief from the commonplace."
