THOMAS KEGLER

“Natural Pigments products are uniquely made and of the highest quality... essentially making it easier to achieve my artistic vision with confidence in archival integrity. I prefer to use Rublev Colours Artist Oils instead of hand grinding my paints... allowing me to spend more time on my paintings.”

ABOUT THE ARTIST

An internationally renowned artist, Thomas is a self-taught realist painter, accomplished producer and champion of future artists, young and old(er). The wilds of New York state and a close-knit family of designers and entrepreneurs shaped an early love of the outdoors and art. Tying flies in Alaska’s backcountry cemented pursuit of a life path illuminated by sunlight more often than lamp light.

His traditional oil paintings showcase the ethereal beauty of landscape, figure and still life. Drawing on the Masters’ approach to canvas, plein air techniques and a deep Catholic faith, his work celebrates creation’s grandeur and mystery through careful attention to the often-overlooked subtleties.

Thomas is recognized as: an Associate Living Master by the Art Renewal Center; a Master Roycroft Artisan; member of the NYC Salmagundi Club; Painting Instructor for the Grand Central Academy in New York City; and Senior Fellow with the Hudson River Fellowship. His work is showcased in galleries, collections and publications worldwide, including the American Arts Quarterly. He lives in Western New York with his children.

ARTIST STATEMENT

Through my work, I strive to bring an awareness and respect for God’s creations and their temporal qualities. They provide an infinite supply of beauty and inspiration. I paint traditionally—mirroring a time when academic training and processes were embraced and nurtured. This approach has given me the skills and knowledge to express myself through hand, head and heart.

I wanted to be a painter from the time I could first hold a brush. Many of my earliest memories are of exploring at the kitchen table with my siblings using paper, cardboard, crayons, scissors and glue. Today, using oil paints, my visions and emotions are given a voice through the infinite variations of color notes. Experiences are what I am called to paint… the materials, technique and subject are the vehicle.

Painting is a humbling experience… often the more you learn and grow, the more challenging it becomes. The many hours and days spent interacting with my subjects have opened my eyes to subtleties such as intricate color and value shifts, and beauty in the overlooked. Something new is revealed each time I visit the canvas. I paint daily - it is as necessary to my life as breathing.

Nature itself has been the most humbling instructor. I am awestruck at the visual inspirations that emerge around me in the outdoors. The sounds, smells, and tactile qualities that I experience while in field cannot help but be infused in the work. I strive to impart a universal quality that makes the viewer feel he has been there and can relate to the image.

Whether in the field or the studio, painting is integral to my life… a product of my faith and experiences.

THOMAS KEGLER ON NATURAL PIGMENTS

Natural Pigments products are uniquely made and of the highest quality... essentially making it easier to achieve my artistic vision with confidence in archival integrity. I prefer to use Rublev Colours Artist Oils instead of hand grinding my paints... allowing me to spend more time on my paintings.

Each pigment has its own unique working characteristics... allowing me to take advantage of these in my painting techniques. As a painter who works predominantly with indirect (layered) methods, I have found Rublev colors are tailored perfectly for a layered process. The Oleogel and Impasto mediums are second to none in working characteristics for glazing and scumbling.

Natural Pigments' dedication to research, education and providing a high quality product should be commended.