Ken was born and raised in the Midwest. His love for the arts was apparent at a very early age and through encouragement and early training, he has built his life around the arts.
After receiving his Bachelor of Arts with honors, Ken began working in a commercial ar
t studio in Chicago. He continued his studies at the American Academy of Art where he studied with nationally recognized watercolorist, Irving Shapiro. Upon Irving’s recommendation Ken joined the acclaimed Palette and Chisel Academy of Fine Art in Chicago, where he soon began studying with Scott Burdick and later with Dan Gerhartz. It was there that Ken adapted his direct and pure approach as well as his bravura brush style, which he achieves by painting from life.
Strongly inspired by John Singer Sargent, Nicolai Fechin, Joaquin Sorolla and the Russian Impressionists, Ken finds himself painting an array of subject matter from everyday life. The feelings Ken evokes in his paintings are due in part to the excitement and passion he feels while capturing the fleeting effects of light, or the wonderful color nuances and harmonies presented by nature and all of her beauty.
Ken continues to travel throughout the United States as well as Italy. He has spent many a summer day painting the Italian countryside, American vistas, and beauty wherever it finds him. This has always been a contributing factor in his work, insight, and inspiration and growth as an artist.
Ken currently resides with his wife and four young children in the beautiful driftless area of southwest Wisconsin.
Please visit Ken’s website: www.kendewaard.com.
