Bugs, wind and freezing temperatures don’t deter Colin Bell from doing what he loves most, painting on location! Direct observation charges Colin Bell’s paintings with immediacy, vitality, and authority that translates into his studio work. The quality of light, colours, space and human-scale inform his perception, interpretation and celebration of the unique character of a particular Place. His greatest inspiration is the Canadian Rockies, but he enjoys other subjects as well. He frequently instructs groups and gives demonstrations in acrylics and watercolours.
Originally from Argentina, Colin Bell has been actively involved in the Calgary art community since 1982 and is currently a member of the Leighton Art Centre, The Group Art Society and the Calgary Artists Society. His work has been exhibited widely and can be found in private and corporate collections in Argentina, Australia, England, Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
With watercolours, Colin Bell advises that “A minimum 50% vodka in your water keeps it from freezing when it’s below zero”.
-Written by Charles Bell
Which ‘hood are you in?
I live in The Lodge at Valley Ridge, in Northwest Calgary.
What do you do?
I am a retired architect and now play the piano and paint.
What are you currently working on?
I am painting outdoors with other artist friends while the weather permits. When winter sets in I check my collection of images from our travels and hiking excursions to inspire studio paintings.
Where can we find your work?
My work may be viewed at the Leighton Centre between Priddis and Millarville, at the Alt Gallery in Sedona, Arizona, at the Mark Penney Gallery in Ucluelet, B.C and in the Willock & Sax Gallery in Banff.
I may be contacted and my work viewed on my website.
You can also find and purchase my work (and paintings from many other Calgary Local artists) at Art Match