Doug Cristafir

Bend, OR - United States

Originally I was painting for over 12 years using an airbrush and acrylic paints to depict abstract landscapes using an organic process with salt, textures and shapes. After creating and selling over 500 artworks it was time to pause and move into other areas. For over 15 years of playing with computer software to artistically alter photos, I began to integrate painting images with photographs.

This blending of photo and painted images lead me to invent a new collage form I call PhotoPainting. I photograph landscapes then combine them with photographed painted paper, plexiglass, or other surfaces to merge into completely new forms and landscapes. My images are not landscapes that I have simply pushed a computer key and manipulated to the finish. I do not consider them digital, since I first take photos, the combine those photo images in the computer where they are worked for hours to get the final collage result. These mountains, ridges, forests and vistas are created fresh from my heart to celebrate the energy of creation. You are viewing natural wonders that exist no where else.

There has always been one theme in my work and heart...to create and reveal beauty. I can't help myself. While many artist are content to create 'cerebral-mind' works...I am attracted to the perfection of beauty and what that feels like. We live in a sometimes crazy world that can look frightening and chaotic. Beauty is the doorway, the threshold of seeing and knowing 'Heaven on Earth'

Years ago I received a degree for a BFA in Art from West Virginia University. But what is truly required to be an artist is a sense of adventure and playfulness. Techniques are helpful, but what emerges from the heart through play is what touches the artist, the viewer and world. I love seeing people get excited about my work. Each piece is a labor of love laced with a touch of adventure.

NOTE: THE HIGH RESOLUTION DEPICTED IN SOME OF THESE IMAGES IS NOT CORRECT. IF YOU WANT A CORRECT VIEW FOR THE SIZE DESIRED, PLEASE EMAIL ME AND WILL SEND YOU A CORRECT RESOLUTION VIEW. crsitafir@radiantarts.com

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