Collection: Mike Ray

I was born and raised in Colorado. My family was from small ranching and logging communities in the Colorado Rockies. As kids we spent our free time hiking, hunting, fishing and camping. Even after traveling the world as a young adult, it only seemed to make sense that I would return to the Colorado mountains I love. I was advised when I was in art school to paint the things I love. I paint the landscape that fashioned my youth and experiences. The landscape continues to influence and shape me to this day. In the beginning I painted those places that I loved because of the memories associated with them. As I continued to grow as an artist, I became more drawn to the quality of light in Colorado and the west. I love dissecting the light and the dark within warm and cool shadows creating a push-pull that lures me into every painting. It has become impossible for me to look at things without noticing the quality of light that defines my surroundings.

 I have been fortunate to spend time painting outside with a group of talented and dedicated artists. That immediate plein-aire experience has begun to transform my painting into believable light the way the eye really sees it while allowing me to make a personal statement. My paintings are all about the light and how I feel about what I see.

 If I am lucky enough to paint every day I will have lived a very good life indeed.

 Master Signature member Pastel Society of Colorado

Member  Plein Air Artists of Colorado

Member American Impressionist Society

Associate Member PSA

 Graduated Cum Laude Regis College, Bachelor of Fine Art, 1990

Workshops with Lorenzo Chavez, Kim Lordier, Desmond O'Hagen and Dennis Rhoades