Featured!: Ross Beard

As part of our new format we will be featuring artists and showcasing some of their work as well as short interviews.

Our first feature is known for his mind blowing, realist and surrealist paintings that feature recognizable local landscapes. You may also recognize his name from the 3 murals he painted throughout Welland. (Though only 2 are still standing. Visit wellandmurals.ca to see all the Welland Murals!)

Without further ado, Mr. Ross Beard.

Ross Beard began landscape painting at the age of 12. Under the discerning eyes of sister Evelyn, Ross developed his unique style. Completing his post secondary education at Niagara and Sheridan College, Ross began painting full-time in 1976. Surrealistic paintings evoking a mysterious serenity soon made Ross a local favorite.

In 1988 ross completed two murals in Welland, also a nautical scene mural in 1995 for Downtown Oshawa.

Ross Beard’s paintings blend sentimentality, mystery, nostalgia and romance combined with fine detailing and historical accuracy. Drawing on the spirit of the land for inspiration, Ross attempts to portray our land in a native perspective. Past times haunt his work making it more about when, than what. A painting may take any where from 1 week to a month depending on the size and subject matter.

Ross is a big fan of good progessive rock(usually british) both old and new. The Group of Seven, Monet, Turner, and Van Gogh are some his favorite painters.

Ross has shown his work at various events, and it is now beautifully shown on his Facebook page. (via Ross Beard)