Zodiac Under Sail

Born in Little Falls, New York, 1945, Robert Bissett is known for exceptional portraits and "plein-air":http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plein_air and studio landscapes. He was featured in the 1995 North Light book, Acrylic Painting Techniques, therein recognized as a master artist. He is a workshop teacher and author of two books on art.

He graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1967, served over five years as a pilot including two tours in Viet Nam. Returning to school after the service he graduated from Washington State University with a degree in architecture, Summa Cum Laude.

A career in architecture seemed more practical, but the urge to paint became overwhelming in the summer of 1980. That fall he had his first show at a gallery in Anchorage, Alaska. Bissett later moved to Idaho in 1980. He has traveled throughout the US, Japan, Australia, Spain, Turkey, Ethiopia, Greece, Iran, Greenland, England, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Costa Rica and Italy. His paintings are a valued part of many private collections.

Painting landscapes, still life, Native Americans, and portraits, is my passion. Since childhood creativity has been at the core of my existence. It's always thrilling to experience the moment a painting takes on a life of its own. A final adjustment of value or color and suddenly it sings with a pure voice.

Bissett considers each painting an opportunity to create a work of art exhibiting both beauty and timelessness. He finds it satisfying to know that it could one day become a cherished heirloom and provide pleasure for generations. He feels blessed with a talent that can bring joy to the lives of others. He wants to meld the physical and spiritual characteristics of each subject he paints into the most telling work of art possible. Conveying the essence is paramount.

Bissett looks to the great masters past and present, such as "Andrew Wyeth":http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrew_Wyeth, "Sargent":http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Singer_Sargent, "Cassat":http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Cassatt, Parrish, "Rembrandt":http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rembrandt, "Monet":http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Claude_monet, "Vermeer":http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vermeer and many others. His challenge as an artist is to strive for the standard of excellence they have established.

He continues to carefully study the paintings available in museum collections and galleries around the country. During regular pilgrimages, as he meticulously examines each piece, he is always considering the best way to incorporate what is observed into his own work. Special attention is paid to the artistic concept employed and the emotional content communicated. Bissett constantly strives to expand his understanding of art and to reach the next plateau. It’s a lifelong process of studying, learning and hopefully growing.