RC Davis - A Louisiana Artist

"The Spirit of New Orleans"
Original on Canvas
40 x 80

Richard Christopher (R. C.) Davis is one of the best-known artists in the Gulf Coast area. Born October 19, 1950 in a rural area outside Amite, Louisiana, he lived the stereotypical life of a farm boy. His love of the natural and farm landscape are outgrowths of his childhood that continue to influence his art today.

As he grew older Chris began studying the lives and painting techniques of a wide range of artist. He taught himself to draw and paint by imitating their methods. At the age of 21, after a two year stint at junior college, R. C. opened a successful sign company.

A decade-and-a half later, a failed marriage, dissatisfaction with the business world, a biography of Van Gogh and a trip to the National Gallery all had a part in convincing Chris to pursue a more fulfilling life. Thus began his career as a fine artist.

Within a short time he was attracting the attention of collectors. Among them were a publisher of fine art prints. The release of those first limitededition prints provided a steady source of income and insured him wider exposure to the public at large. During the last twenty or so years, he has become one of the most beloved artists in the region.

During much of this period R. C. painted the rural world - farmhouses, wildlife and the Louisiana landscape. In 2004 he turned his attention to the city of New Orleans. While many have painted New Orleans, most have painted landmarks devoid of the bustle of daily life. Chris took a different approach. He didn’t focus on one building, but the entire street. And people populated his work - people going about their daily routines.

Even Mardi Gras by Chris is different. Instead of focussing on a float or a few revelers, he provides you with a panoramic view of the entire parade and the buildings that act as the backdrop. You are positioned in the middle of the teeming crowd, but unlike being at the parade, you can see everyone there.

Painting New Orleans reinvigorated R. C. This lead him to travel and expand his repertoire of subjects. His paintings of the Appalachian Mountains and the west have lead to recognition over a much wider area and introduced his work to a multitude of new collectors. He appears to be on the verge of national recognition.

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