Painter Howard Lucas has a passion for plein air

Howard “Luke” Lucas of Shingletown has a passion for plein air/outdoor painting. He works in watercolor, acrylic and oil paints, pastel, sculpture and mixed media – all with the outdoors in common. His landscapes are on exhibit from Aug. 1 to 28 at the North Valley Art League gallery – the old Carter House building, at 53 Quartz Hill Road in Redding; and on regular display at the Mt. Lassen Art Center gallery and the Redding Salon RMC on East Street.

What has been your artistic journey?

I began painting 40 years ago, with 30 units of art at Skyline College.

My intention in painting flows intuitively as an urge to capture – the atmosphere and energy of place. Often I paint when traveling: India, Nepal, Turkey, Argentina, New Zealand, Europe and the British Isles, Mexico, China, Thailand, Japan and other places. My most intense painting comes while going to open paint-outs in Mendocino, the Lost Coast/Shelter Cove, Death Valley and Whiskeytown.

Since founding the Mt. Lassen Art Center, art education and art activism and outreach are a big part of my artistic journey.

What kind of art do you create?

I mostly paint landscapes and seascapes. I also portray mathematical forms, erogenous themes, abstract visions (and) the human figure. I also make sculptures and paint murals.

How is your style different from other styles?

My usual style is an immediate response to simplify the energy and essence of a place into a realistic painting. I most enjoy painting before dawn and after sunset. People say I have a recognizable style in my plein air paintings.

Where/How did you study to develop your skills as an artist?

I’ve taken (art classes) at Skyline College, College of San Mateo, Evergreen College and Shasta College. Numerous workshops at the Mendocino Art Center, North Valley Art League, Jade Fon Asilomar Riudoso NM, University Art San Jose, Virginia City, and other places have provided a wealth of experience with (more than) 30 different artists.

I also developed through fellowship and painting with other artists. Being an active member of art organizations such as the Artist Gathering, Redding Salon, the North Valley Art League and Shasta Arts Council adds much to your art.

When you’re working on a piece, are you trying to express something specific?

I seek to express a response to the essential qualities of a place.

Do you ever feel satisfied/unsatisfied with your work?

More than 300 unfinished paints are in my studio. Sometimes I go through them and finish and frame a few from the pile. Sometimes I paint on the other side.

I often find that I’m surprised that someone may buy a painting that I felt was less than my best.

Artists often strive to do better. You may be dead as an artist if you feel you’ve arrived.

Do you have advice for other aspiring artists?

Keep making art. Hang out with other artists. I believe that copying other art work or photos takes you away from being creative and exploring the muse.