PRESENTED BY
Sean Shrum, a Jonesboro AR native was born in Poplar Bluff , MO. Growing up on his family's horse farm afforded Sean the opportunity to develop a love for the land and wildlife. "I believe it was here on the farm that I began to see the world through different eyes. The farm instilled in me a respect for silence, in order to fully understand and appreciate raw beauty." From a very early age Sean would draw, sketch, and paint his surroundings which led him to pursue a degree in Landscape Architecture at the University of Arkansas. "Although I did not immediately see a productive future as a studio artist, I always aspired to be just that." Left with the desire to paint after college, Sean sought out an acclaimed artist and mentor to bring him up to speed on the art world. Immediately following graduation in the fall of 2008 Sean produced a show of 40 plus pieces that he would present alongside his mentor Barry Thomas. "It was very successful and well received, the show sold out in one weekend."
Since, Sean has developed a great following for his art. His subject matter is very diverse including : wildlife, landscapes, portraits, and abstracts.
"I feel that I find beauty in the most remarkable places. A favorite quote of mine which I wear proudly inscribed on ring describes my vision well. "" The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes but in having new eyes. - Marcel Proust ""
Trained as an impressionist artist , Sean has since shifted his style to a more expressive and stylistic nature. Beautiful brush strokes and unmistakable mark making characterize his works well. The heavy impasto shapes and energetic strokes give Sean's paintings a unifying uniqueness all their own.
Sean is committed to helping others by way of donating to charitable organizations and events; most recently his live painting/ portrait brought $26,000 at an auction in Arkansas. It is an exhilirating experience to produce a piece of art from start to finish in a matter of a couple of hours before 1,000's of people, and even more so when it brings a great deal of money to benefit a worthwhile cause.
To purchase the 2015 Festival Print, click below!
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