aaron brent harker

Born March 20, 1977

I like to think painting, and all art if done successfully, can say the things our hearts and minds hold closest without diminishing them. And sometimes - in rare cases - uncover our secret hearts and expand our love and understanding to another level.

I am the son of two creative parents who passed on the love of drawing, art, and nature. Growing up a native of Utah I spent my time exploring the wilds of the western landscape.

Discovering the diverse beauty our country has to offer. Experiencing a deep love and understanding of our natural world. This is what I connect to through my art: Nature's endless well of inspiration.

This connection led to the desire for a more thorough knowledge in the practice of drawing and painting from a classical perspective. In 2004 I attended Water Street Atelier for two years of study with painter and teacher Jacob Collins, as well as additional workshops with Tony Ryder, Dan Thomson and Patrick Connors. I continue my study of the great masters, past and present.

I paint in the classical realism style and follow the tenets of "paint from life" and western art; animals are a central theme in my artwork.

EDUCATION

Water Street Atelier | NYC, NY, 2004-06
Art Students League | NYC, NY, 2005

AWARDS

• Art Renewal Center Salon, 2016 | Animal Category: Third Place 
• Art Renewal Center Salon, 2016 | Two ARC Staff Awards
• Art Renewal Center Salon,  2014 | Still Life Category: First Place
• Sun Valley Center For the Arts, 2015 | Best in Painting
• Tempe Center for the Arts IGOR show, 2013 | Best Still Life
• International Art Renewal Center Salon, 2010/2011  |  ARC Staff Award
• International Art Renewal Center Salon, 2010/2011  |  Still Life Category: Third Place
• Springville Museum of Art 85th Annual Spring Salon, 2009 | Directors Award
• Springville Museum of Art 85th Annual Spring Salon, 2007 | Merit Award
• Springville Museum of Art 85th Annual Spring Salon, 2005 | Merit Award
• The Artists Magazine 21st Annual Art Competition 2004 | Finalist