Artist Bio

Oil Painting Artist Charlotte WiskowCharlotte Wiskow's greatest love in art is portraiture, and now her major focus is on some very special people—Fallen Heroes who laid down their lives for their fellow countrymen. She attributes her success in creating life and warmth in her paintings to careful observation, a feel for the subject, and techniques learned by studying the Old Masters. She is a Southeast Minnesota native who has been accepting commissions for thirty plus years, working mainly in oils. Other media used in creating her art include pastels, pencil, charcoal, and pen & ink. Her works embrace a variety of subject matter.

Beginning her "career" in grade school, Charlotte captured likenesses of her classmates and gave them as gifts to her friends. Her first commission was a pencil drawing of a co-workers fiancé – the fee, five dollars. Early commissioned oil portraits included those for a neighbor who wanted her three children painted "before you get expensive."

Reaching beyond her college art classes, Charlotte found professional workshops to be invaluable, often attending those offered at the Scottsdale Artist's School. Through various workshops, demonstrations, and lectures, Charlotte has studied under such Masters as Margaret Baumgaertner, Daniel Green, and Donald 'Putt' Putman. She is now considered by many to be the foremost portrait artist in the area.

Charlotte is also adept at painting still lifes and scenes. She maintains that a portrait artist must be able to paint anything, since various props and backgrounds are often required. Her favorite scenic works include the colorful seasons of the Midwest and studies from her travels to Germany and Switzerland. Her works are in private and corporate collections in most all fifty states and abroad. Corporate clients include the City of Rochester, IBM, and the Mayo Clinic.

Sharing her expertise and knowledge has been a major part of Charlotte's career. Through her private and group lessons, demonstrations, and lectures she has taught students of all ages and skill levels including advanced adults. She has also served as Artist in Residence in many area schools. Charlotte is a member of The American Society of Portrait Artists (ASOPA) and Southeastern Minnesota Visual Artists (SEMVA) where she served as past-president.

ARTIST STATEMENT

In describing myself as an artist I would have to say I am a realist with a painterly touch who has always had a passion for painting people. Fallen Hero Portraits reflects that passion.

Portraiture is considered the most challenging of all artistic endeavors. Working from photographs can pose special challenges. When I decided to do the Hero Portraits I knew it was imperative that I practice, and so I did, for months working strictly from photographs. My past experiences of recreating Old Master's works proved to be helpful during this time of study.

By using several photo references I am able to find the rhythm of the contours of the face. Capturing that rhythm along with correct anatomy and value is all-important. With the addition of vibrant color and glazing techniques the result is a successful, realistic painting – one that I hope captures not only a likeness but some of the spirit of the person.

In creating these portraits for Gold Star families and other hero families it is my heartfelt wish that each painting will express our love and appreciation; and serve as a cherished keepsake of a courageous and precious life.