Today we’d like to introduce you to Larry Maynard. They and their team shared their story with us below:
Larry Maynard is a prominent artist hailing from the beautiful, forested landscape of Northwestern Pennsylvania. His fascination with art was sparked at the early age of 16, marking the beginning of a lifelong journey.
Maynard pursued his passion fervently, gaining valuable training at the prestigious Chautauqua Art Institute, and under the mentorship of renowned artist George Gamsky. Further honing his skills as a photographer while serving in the US Navy, Maynard translated his worldly experiences into his work. A shift in his creative trajectory occurred upon his return to Pennsylvania when he began transforming his photographic subjects into painted portraits and landscapes.
Maynard’s love for nature deeply inspires his work, and his pieces can often be seen as a lament for Florida’s diminishing wetlands due to relentless real estate development and the unfavorable effects of global warming. Choosing “Tonalism” as his artistic style, Maynard has mastered the art of creating simplicity and moodiness in his paintings, making them feel uniquely transcendental.
His study of the work of the old Tonalistic Masters helped him improve his technique over the years, resulting in emotionally charged pieces that captivate viewers with their unique moodiness evoked through every brushstroke. His artistic influences include George Inness and James McNeil Whistler, whose work has played a significant part in shaping Maynard’s style.
Collectors all along the East Coast have been drawn to the deeply emotional, somber Tonalism of Maynard’s pieces. As a member of several art organizations including Florida Artists Group, Professional Association of Visual Artists (PAVA), and Suntan Art Center, Maynard has showcased his work at the Art Expo in St Pete Beach, Florida, and Artists of Elements, St. Petersburg, Florida.
Maynard’s contribution to art has been widely recognized, with numerous accolades to his name, including several first-, second-, and third-place awards from prestigious art societies and exhibitions. Some of many include the Award of Distinction at Bonita Springs National Art Festival, 1st Place at Artigras Fine Art Festival, and Award of Honor at the Autumn Art Festival.
Dedicated entirely to his craft, Larry Maynard’s emotional connection with nature’s moods and hues results in creations that are more than just paintings – they are poignant narratives. Driven by a desire to leave a lasting legacy through his art, Maynard believes in the transformative power of art in society. His mastery of Tonalism and the distinctive moodiness of his art offer viewers an unparalleled, deeply emotional experience, making Larry Maynard a distinguished figure in contemporary art.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Unless you are blessed and arrive with a silver spoon in your pocket, making a living as an artist has always been a struggle. If you are a good artist and produce original and interesting art, the easy part is selling the piece. The hard and most challenging part is, “Who are you going to sell it to”. Being the best artist in the world doesn’t mean your art will sell unless someone sees it.
Exposure and putting your artwork in front of collectors and the buying public on a regular and consistent basis is very difficult. But today, with social media and the World Wide Web, it is a lot easier than it was 20 years ago when the only form of exposure was art shows and exhibitions.
Today, an artist must choose between self-promotion, galleries, influencers, or other forms of marketing. Today, artists must figure out a way to sell a $1000 piece without spending $2000 to get it sold. The biggest challenge any artist can have is figuring out how to get an artwork in front of the buying public without spending more than the value of the piece.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a contemporary landscape artist, my work is a conscious play of light, mood, and color. I showcase the sentiment of sublime nature and the emotive impact it has on our emotions. My use of natural light and mastery of color create an aura of emotion that captivates my audience and carries with them a sense of tranquility.
My work portrays the intimate beauty of the environment, giving life to a new perspective. While each painting may be simplistic in its color palate, it is full of emotion and moody vibes. I maintain soft atmospheric edges while focusing on the tone and more importantly, the emotion that lies within my artwork. Through my art, I hope to engage the audience and trigger their emotional journey.
My representational paintings are created in a Tonalistic Style reminiscent of turn of the century Masters. Images can be derived from realistic memories or fantasies derived from my imagination.
My Atmospheric. Atmospheric paintings are inspired by the beauty of nature. The emotional moodiness is a reflection of my feelings while I’m painting.
Alright so before we go can you talk to us a bit about how people can work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
My paintings don’t necessarily support an exact place or location that the viewer may be familiar with. Rather, I intend to create some form of an emotion within your soul while viewing it.
Emotions such as hope, separation, tranquility, loneliness, and dreams, are just a few of the many emotions that I try to convey. Your emotions may not always agree with my intent, but that is fine, as long as you stand in front of it for several minutes and allow your emotions to take hold in whatever direction you want to go.
Pricing:
- A Larry Maynard Fine Art Painting is something you will enjoy for many years to come. We keep our pricing affordable as they will run anywhere between $250-$10,000.
Contact Info:
- Website: larrymaynardartist.com/
- Instagram: @larrymaynardartist
- Facebook: facebook.com/larrymaynardartist
